FareShare Midlands employability programme helps hundreds into work
FareShare Midlands is celebrating the success of its ‘I-Can’ employability programme, which has helped hundreds of people across Birmingham take steps into work.
The programme was delivered as part of the PURE (Partnership for Urban Employment and Recovery) initiative commissioned by Birmingham City Council.
Launched in March 2022, I-Can marked the charity’s first formal employability programme, supporting people facing complex barriers to work.
Over three years, the programme has helped 381 participants across Birmingham build confidence, develop essential skills and take meaningful steps toward employment
This tailored, person-centred approach has led to 98 people securing jobs, with a further 21 participants gaining employment within FareShare Midlands itself.
One of those individuals is Loveness, who moved to the UK from Zimbabwe in 2024 and spent a year struggling to find work.
After discovering FareShare Midlands on social media, she joined the I-Can programme and quickly flourished.
Recognising her potential, the team encouraged her to apply for a role within the organisation, which she successfully secured.
Loveness said: “I have had an amazing experience working at FareShare Midlands, with a wonderful team who are truly passionate about helping vulnerable people improve their lives.”
Simone Connolly, CEO at FareShare Midlands, said: “We know that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. I-Can has shown what’s possible when people are given the right support, encouragement and belief.
“It’s been incredibly powerful to see individuals grow in confidence, discover their strengths and take real steps into employment. This programme hasn’t just changed outcomes — it has changed lives.”
The I-Can programme has been delivered as part of the wider PURE partnership, bringing together organisations across Birmingham to support residents into employment and improve life chances.
FareShare Midlands continues to build on the success of I-Can through its current employability programmes.
Connect to Work, delivered in partnership with Better Pathways, The BUSY Group, disability resource centre and The Colebridge Trust, provides tailored, one-to-one support to help disabled people and those facing complex barriers prepare for, find and sustain meaningful employment.
Alongside this, Root2Rise, funded by the National Zakat Foundation, supports individuals who have been out of work long-term with free training, qualifications and practical experience to help them move into full-time roles.
