TfL has long been a champion of employability initiatives, and its latest programme is no exception. Reactivate is a lifeline for individuals who have been out of work for over 12 months, are returning after a career break, are aged 50+ and transitioning industries, or have limited UK work experience despite long-term residency.
In collaboration with Nadia Brobbey, Skills & Employment Delivery Adviser at TfL, Reed Talent Solutions’ Greater London Authority (GLA) collaboration account management team worked closely to deliver a tailored careers day as part of the Reactivate programme. The event aimed to equip participants with the tools, confidence, and knowledge needed to re-enter the job market successfully.
Empowering through skills and confidence
The careers day was a joint effort led by Reed Talent Solutions’ Service Delivery Manager, Jane Goodwin, and Client Development Manager, Chantelle Sharan, who partnered with Nadia from TfL to create a comprehensive and impactful experience. The day focused on helping participants identify and leverage their transferable skills, build confidence, and prepare for the demands of the modern job market.
Jane and Chantelle hosted a session titled, ‘Why temporary work?’, which highlighted the benefits of contracting, the rights and protections of temporary workers under the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR), and practical advice on CV preparation and interview techniques. The session also explored how temporary employment can serve as a stepping stone for various career paths.
To further instil confidence, eight Reed co-members volunteered their time to support the programme by running speed networking sessions and mock interviews. These activities provided participants with the opportunity to discuss their work and life experiences, articulate their transferable skills in an interview setting, and practice speaking confidently about themselves.
A partnership that delivers results
The careers day was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from both the Reactivate participants and the TfL team. The safe and supportive environment created by the partnership allowed attendees to build their confidence and refine their employability skills. As a direct result of the event, Reed Talent Solutions has already helped three programme members secure new opportunities, and TfL is eager to continue this impactful collaboration.
Nadia Brobbey shared gratitude for the partnership, stating: "Thank you to you both and to all the recruiters who enthusiastically engaged in the Reactivate end-of-programme event last month. It was great to work closely to ensure that the session was well aligned with participant needs, programme commitments, and our organisational goals. Working together has been an exceptional experience throughout all stages!"
Looking ahead
The success of the careers day underscores the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change. TfL and Reed Talent Solutions have demonstrated how partnerships can empower individuals, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities. With plans to continue this partnership, the future looks bright for the Reactivate programme and the communities it serves.
Nadia added: "The caring and considerate approach made a significant impact, helping participants to comfortably develop their employability skills. The practical knowledge, encouragement, and insight you (the Reed Talent Solutions team) provided empowered people on the programme to better understand and prepare for the demands of the job market. Once again, thank you all for your continued commitment to making a positive impact on TfL employability programmes - I look forward to future collaborations!"
