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07 March 2023

Sustainability Manager, Gemma Fawcett shares her thoughts on idverde partnership with NOW Group

Here at idverde, we believe in creating an inclusive and diverse workforce and opportunities for everyone. In working towards this goal, we have teamed up with social enterprise, NOW Group who support people with learning difficulties and autism in sustainable employment. Our team at idverde are delivering 15 jobs in the horticultural sector across Northern Ireland as part of this collaboration. Heading up this project is our very own Sustainability Manager, Gemma Fawcett, who shares her opinion on how much potential this partnership may offer.

How did our partnership with NOW Group begin?
GF: The relationship with NOW came about as we were looking at how we could measure our social impact. After desktop research we came across The Gauge Impact report which is a social enterprise connected with NOW Group in Northern Ireland. After our first meeting we knew there were so many more ways we could work together.
As the Sustainability Manager for idverde, what is it about this partnership that matters to you?
GF: The people, working with social enterprises has become integral to our operations. SE’s who provide additional support for those who need it whilst re-investing their profits is a win-win model we are proud to work closely with. We are able to introduce people into our workforce who would not have applied to work for us through traditional recruitment channels. So not only overcoming the challenge of recruitment but embracing a diverse workforce.
What impact will the delivery of 15 jobs across Northern Ireland make?
GF: As our business is seasonal, we face the challenge of needing additional operatives from March to October each year. This is difficult for applicants due to being temporary, most people are looking for full time employment. Through NOW Group’s partnership we have looked at how we can turn this challenge into an opportunity. For 2023 we are going to pilot sharing the working year with another NOW Group partner. Employees will work with idverde for 8 months and another company for the remaining 4 months. From a business perspective being able to secure the same seasonal operatives year on year would not only ease recruitment challenges but increase productivity and health & safety.
Are there any plans to expand the job opportunities after this initial phase of recruitment?
GF: Alongside business growth we will certainly continue to grow our relationship with NOW Group. We will understand our challenges and expectations much better towards the end of our first season and our intention would be to learn from and expand upon this next season.
What opportunities lie ahead for NOW Group members after the training?
GF: An exciting season working outside with nature, the opportunity to work with great teams and to expand knowledge; from learning to operate new types of machinery, taking part in community and nature enhancement projects to possibly starting an apprenticeship with our local Cafre College at Greenmount.
The initiative has garnered interest across Ireland, with the Irish News promoting the partnership: Green shoots for NOW and idverde with 15 new job opportunities – The Irish News
For more information on how this partnership develops please continue following our social media channels and check out our news section on our website: https://www.idverde.co.uk/latest-news/
Want to get involved? Contact us with any questions you may have here: https://www.idverde.co.uk/contact-us/
NOW group and idverde

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