Envision Joins Rigby Foundation’s £3 Million Social Mobility Initiative

We’re thrilled to announce that Envision is a key partner in Inspiring Futures, a groundbreaking £3 million social mobility initiative led by The Rigby Foundation. Over the next three years, this programme will provide vital support to thousands of young people from less-advantaged backgrounds across Birmingham, helping them develop the essential skills, confidence, and opportunities needed for success.

A Commitment to Social Mobility

To mark its 50th year, The Rigby Foundation has pledged £1 million annually to Inspiring Futures, a programme designed to bridge the gap between education and employment for young people from low-income communities. The initiative connects ten Birmingham schools and colleges with ten leading charities, including Envision, to deliver targeted support in essential areas such as:

• Improving Maths and English attainment
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Debate and communication skills
• Career preparation and employability

With 46.4% of children in the West Midlands living in poverty, initiatives like Inspiring Futures are crucial in creating pathways for young people to succeed in education, employment, and their personal lives.

A Collaborative Approach to Change

The schools selected for the programme, including Ark Boulton, John Henry Newman Catholic College, and King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy, are located in areas with high levels of deprivation. Through close collaboration with Birmingham City Council and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), Inspiring Futures will support over 1,000 students per year, helping them build aspirations and gain the tools they need to succeed.

Steve Rigby, Chair of The Rigby Foundation, emphasised the importance of this initiative:

“In keeping with Richard Parker’s West Midlands Youth Employment Plan, we are focused on nurturing and supporting our region’s young people into work. That starts with a good education, and we hope by bringing together schools, colleges, and charities, we can raise the aspirations of our city’s students.”

Envision’s Role in Inspiring Futures

As one of the ten charity partners, Envision brings its expertise in essential skills to the programme. We work closely with young people in schools and colleges, empowering them to build their confidence and essential skills through youth-led social action projects, supported by mentors from local businesses.

Katie, Birmingham Regional Manager at Envision, shared her excitement:

“What an honour to be a part of this new wave of thinking and collaboration in the West Midlands! We’re very proud and excited to see what the next three years hold. If the launch event is anything to go by, it’s going to be a strong and collaborative year ahead!”

Looking Ahead

With a shared vision for social change, Envision and our partners are committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of young people in Birmingham. We look forward to seeing the incredible journeys of the young people we support and the positive change Inspiring Futures will bring to our region.