Warwick Castle becomes a Fair Chance Employer

“The visit was not just a day out, it was a stepping stone towards future possibilities...we are so grateful to everyone at the castle for their warm welcome and for making this experience truly unforgettable.”

Warwick Castle has underlined its commitment to inclusive employment by signing up to Warwickshire County Council's Fair Chance Employment Programme.

Joining the programme, which is run by Warwickshire Skills Hub, reinforces the dedication of Merlin Entertainments, owners of the castle, to fostering inclusive recruitment and employment practices. The initiative is a significant step forward in creating a more diverse workforce and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their careers.

By becoming a Fair Chance employer, Warwick Castle has aligned itself with a growing number of employers across the county who are committed to opening their doors to a wider talent pool. This pledge not only enhances the workplace culture but also enriches the visitor experience by bringing in diverse perspectives and skills.

The Warwickshire Supported Employment Service (WSES) team recently enjoyed the opportunity to spend a day at the breath taking castle. The excitement was palpable as a group of WSES customers, with their journey guides, arrived ready to embark on a day filled with discovery and inspiration.

They were warmly greeted by Karen Bridge, People Advisor at Merlin Entertainment, and Liam Bartlett, General Manager at Warwick Castle. Their hospitality set the tone for a thoroughly engaging experience as the group was introduced to a variety of employees who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the castle operates seamlessly day in and day out.

From grounds maintenance to guest services, hospitality and even the fascinating realms of acting and costume design, the WSES customers gained invaluable insights into the diverse roles behind delivering the magic of Warwick Castle. Each role plays a crucial part in creating memorable experiences for visitors all year round and to see the passion and dedication of the staff first-hand was inspiring.

Tour guide Andrew brought the castle's rich history to life with an engaging narrative which not only educated the group but sparked their imaginations, making history feel alive and relevant. The day concluded with a chance for the WSES customers to chat with various managers about their departments. This interaction opened doors to potential work experience opportunities, allowing them to envision their own paths within the historic world of Warwick Castle.

“The visit was not just a day out, it was a stepping stone towards future possibilities,” said Heather Docksey, Business Skills Support Advisor for the Fair Chance Employment Programme. “Our Supported Employment team and our customers left Warwick Castle inspired and motivated, ready to pursue their dreams with newfound knowledge and connections. We are so grateful to everyone at the castle for their warm welcome and for making this experience truly unforgettable.”

The Fair Chance Employment Programme is designed to support individuals who may face barriers to employment. With the right support and reasonable adjustments, people who are experienced, skilled, and qualified can now be considered for roles that they may have previously thought were out of reach. This initiative empowers individuals to showcase their talents and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.

If you believe your business could benefit from offering inclusive opportunities, the Fair Chance Employment Programme would love to hear from you. Joining is a fantastic way to make a positive impact in your community while also tapping into a wealth of untapped talent.

• To learn more about how you can get involved, please contact our Business Skills Support team at 01926 796461 or email to fairchance@warwickshire.gov.uk