Neurodiversity, Autism, and Social Value: Empowering Individuals and Businesses

When I stepped down from my day to day role back in October, I wanted to take the opportunity to lean into my board appointments and causes I care deeply about.  In today's piece I want to focus on one of those organisations; NOW Group

In today's world, the success of businesses and organisations depends not only on their products and services but also on their societal impact. Recognizing the importance of social value, this article explores how The NOW Group's innovative approach helps not only the individuals it supports but also boosts the social value of businesses.

For over two decades, NOW Group has been dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with training programs and long-term job opportunities. Through their diverse services, NOW Group offers training opportunities across various sectors, including catering, hospitality, digital, fin tech, business services, and manufacturing. They also operate cafes, a pottery retail enterprise, and a catering business, all aimed at creating inclusive environments and empowering individuals with disabilities.

Under the leadership of CEO Maeve Monaghan, NOW Group has set ambitious goals to support 6000 participants in gaining 6000 qualifications and securing 1200 paid jobs within the next three years. In the current year alone, NOW Group has successfully supported 256 participants in securing paid jobs. This demonstrates the organisation's commitment to making a real impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities.

NOW Group acts as a bridge between individuals with disabilities and employers who may be hesitant to interact with disabled individuals. They provide the necessary support and training programs to help individuals gain the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce. This approach not only benefits the individuals by providing them with meaningful employment but also helps businesses tap into a talented and diverse pool of workers.

Throughout its history, NOW Group has facilitated job placements in a wide range of sectors, including scuba diving, healthcare, cyber security, hospitality, and manufacturing. Their training programs act as a feeder into these sectors, allowing individuals to explore various career paths and contribute to different industries. The organisation's success stories include collaborations with renowned businesses such as Lidl, Hendersons Group, Deloitte, Galgorm Collection, and M&S, who have not only availed of NOW Group's catering services but have also employed former trainees.

For businesses looking to embark on their social impact journey, NOW Group offers the JAM (Just a Minute) program. This program, particularly beneficial for consumer-facing businesses, raises awareness about inclusion and diversity in the workforce. By becoming "JAM Card friendly" through a simple sign-up process, businesses receive training packages that equip their staff to provide excellent customer service to JAM Card holders. This initiative not only enhances customer experience but also taps into the spending power of the 150,000 JAM Card holders, whose annual spending is estimated at £249 billion.

Integrating societal value into the supply chain is another way businesses can increase their social impact. NOW Group's subsidiary, Loaf Catering, delivers fresh food to companies and caters for special events and parties. By simply swapping catering suppliers to support NOW Group's catering business, businesses can make a meaningful contribution to society.

NOW Group's growth over the past 20 years has exceeded expectations, but their journey is far from over. CEO Maeve Monaghan emphasizes the importance of collaboration and businesses' role in contributing to society. Many businesses have already experienced the benefits of working with NOW Group, including happier staff and increased attraction of new talent seeking workplaces with a social purpose.

As NOW Group continues to expand its services and impact, they invite businesses to identify areas where they can provide assistance. Whether it's designing custom programs or exploring collaborative opportunities, NOW Group is committed to working together for the betterment of society. By harnessing the power of neurodiversity, Autism, and social value, NOW Group is shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for individuals and businesses alike.

It is under the leadership of Maeve Monaghan and the Senior Management team, supported by an amazing board I am privileged to sit at the table with,  that the NOW Group's pioneering approach demonstrates how businesses can create social value while empowering individuals with disabilities. By supporting training programs, facilitating job placements, and fostering inclusive environments, NOW Group not only transforms the lives of individuals but also enhances the social value of businesses. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of societal impact, NOW Group stands as a beacon of inspiration and collaboration, paving the way for a more inclusive and socially conscious future

Please reach out if you want to learn more about how to partners with The Now Group in line with your commitment to social value.