IKEA Reading’s People and Culture Team

A close partnership with a specialist SEN school for seven years has brought IKEA Reading’s People and Culture a nomination for a Business in Action award.

Their work with Brookfield School has ensured that work experience and employment opportunities are accessible, meaningful, and inclusive, said their nominator.

“Through this partnership, they have supported 41 students on tailored work experience programmes and gone far beyond expectations to help each young person succeed.”

They added: “IKEA Reading exemplifies what it means to be a community-focused employer. Their efforts to foster a diverse, inclusive, and customer-centred workplace reflect the very best of Reading’s values and make a tangible, lasting difference in the lives of young people and their families.”

“Thanks to their inclusive approach, six of our students – both current and former – have gone on to secure part-time and full-time employment with IKEA Reading.

“Notably, one former pupil has even won multiple customer service awards, a true testament to both their personal growth and IKEA’s nurturing, customer-focused culture.”

IKEA has created an accessible recruitment process that removes barriers for candidates who struggle with traditional interviews. They also offer interview practice and workplace preparation sessions during careers weeks.

“Most recently, we have begun working together to establish a SEND Parent and Carer Community Group, hosted within the IKEA Reading store, creating a safe and welcoming space for families in the area,” said the nominator.

They nominated the store for the award, sponsored by Boyes Turner, in “recognition of their outstanding and long-term commitment to supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the local community.”