We are proud to announce that Acorn Training and RIFT Social Enterprise have won the Partnership & Collaboration Award at this year’s ERSA Employability Awards. This recognition is a fantastic testament to the dedication and teamwork that drive our partnership and the impact it has on people furthest from the labour market.

Our collaboration is a powerful example of what’s possible when two organisations work closely to unlock potential, encourage independence, and create lasting outcomes. Operating across Burton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Coalville, Melton Mowbray and Daventry, this partnership combines Acorn Training’s Restart Scheme delivery with RIFT’s award-winning approach to self-employment support, creating a joined-up pathway that helps individuals move from long-term unemployment to sustainable self-employment.

Why This Partnership Works

Many of the people we support face significant barriers to work, including experience of the criminal justice system, long-term health conditions, caring responsibilities, or low confidence. Through this partnership, they receive consistent, personalised support that adapts to their pace and potential.

From the moment of referral, Employment Coaches at Acorn and Business Start-Up Advisors at RIFT work together, sharing progress and keeping participants at the heart of the process. Support includes:

  • Personalised 1:1 guidance over 6–12 months
  • Help with business planning, budgeting, and marketing
  • Website, social media and sales support
  • Legal and tax advice, including HMRC registration and free completion of the first tax return
  • Flexible, light-touch support for gig workers and sole traders
  • Specialist help for construction workers via the CIS scheme and JobMatcha platform
  • Access to discretionary funding for equipment, travel, or tools

Participants also benefit from e-learning, monthly webinars, and co-created resources that suit all learning styles. Surplus income is reinvested to directly benefit the people being supported.

Impact So Far

To date, 124 individuals have been jointly supported through the Restart scheme:

  • 51% have remained actively engaged
  • 38% have gone on to set up their own business
  • Of those supported for 6 months, 33% are now actively trading

One participant shared:
“RIFT is very helpful and open-minded. They guided me all the way. Most of all, they’re encouraging. My advisor understands my business and has supported me throughout.”

Case Study: Emmie’s Journey

Emmie had a love for crochet but didn’t know how to turn it into income. With support from RIFT and Acorn, she developed her brand, created a business plan, and built her presence on Instagram. RIFT funded her table cover and business cards, helping her set up a weekly market stall. Now a registered sole trader, Emmie is growing steadily and looking to expand online.

“RIFT gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams. I’ve grown my followers, connected with new customers, and I’m excited for what’s next.” – Emmie
“It’s been brilliant watching Emmie progress. She works so hard and really believes in herself now.” – Kath, RIFT

Beyond Individual Success

To maximise impact, Acorn Training and RIFT are also:

  • Hosting best practice forums for partners and enterprise hubs
  • Sharing toolkits and resources with other providers
  • Supporting peer-led entrepreneurship networks for ongoing collaboration
  • Advising local councils and chambers on inclusive enterprise development

This partnership transforms lives by turning barriers into business opportunities. Through tailored support and shared values, Acorn Training and RIFT Social Enterprise empower individuals to build sustainable futures through self-employment.

Finally, we want to congratulate our outstanding Employment Coach, Vickie Haywood-Hunt, who was shortlisted as a finalist in the Frontline Advisor category. Although she did not win, being recognised among the best in the sector is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects her passion and impact.

It was inspiring to stand alongside so many organisations at the 2025 ERSA Conference and Awards ceremony. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to make a positive difference.