Neurodivergent college launches pioneering business initiative

BUSINESSES are being urged to engage in an innovative initiative that will give them access to the talents of a hardworking and focussed neurodivergent workforce.

HC Business Connect has been launched by Harrison College, a specialist organisation founded seven years ago by Gemma Peebles to provide young people with autism and social, emotional and mental health issues the vital skills they need for work and adulthood. The enterprise, due to be launched on April 15, offers employers the chance to support the development of an inclusive, skilled future workforce and access a range of benefits designed to strengthen business.

Gemma said: “We are delighted to officially launch HC Business Connect, a dynamic network of employers, educators and industry leaders committed to shaping tomorrow’s workforce, together.

“Local organisations play a vital role in changing labels, breaking stereotypes and creating life-changing opportunities for talented young people at Harrison College and HC Business Connect is a way to recognise this commitment.”

HC Business Connect will host a networking launch event on April 15 at Hex Connect, The Yorkshire Hive, Auckley, Doncaster. Organisations from across the region will be presented official Partner Certificates to recognise their commitment and contribution.

There will be the opportunity to share best practice, collaborate and explore new ways to support neurodivergent young people into meaningful careers. After the official launch there will be quarterly networking meetings at which partners can gain further insights, access Employer Advisory Board sessions, receive neurodiversity in the workplace training and benefit from marketing recognition, including a Partner Certificate and digital partnership logo. Gemma said: “Whether partners decide to support a careers workshop, co-design the curriculum, mentor an intern, or offer employment opportunities, their involvement makes a real difference.”

As part of HC Business Connect, partners can align with one of its four tiers –  Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum – each with exclusive benefits, including access to hospitality experiences at Doncaster Racecourse. This includes, for bronze, businesses offering site visits, delivering a careers insight workshop or supporting the college through a donation of resources. Silver partners will commit their time and resources to co-design the college curriculum and offer live project briefs for young people to deliver. Gold partners will offer their time to support and mentor students as an intern, offering career insight workshops and support co-designing of the curriculum. Platinum will see partners commit their time to support and mentor interns and then offer employment and/or apprenticeships.

Gemma said: “Our partners are leading the systemic change across our region and will benefit from the diverse talent of our young people.”

Anyone interested should visit https://www.harrisoncollege.co.uk/events/.