City of Bristol College signs Social Recruitment Covenant and pledges inclusive workforce practices

City of Bristol College is proud to announce its commitment to the Social Recruitment Covenant (SRC), reinforcing its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. By signing the Covenant, the college underscores its responsibility to remove employment barriers and create equitable opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds. 

A national commitment to inclusive recruitment 

The Social Recruitment Covenant, officially launched in November 2024 at Westminster, has garnered nationwide support from employers, Social Recruitment Advocacy Group (SRAG) members, partners and members of Parliament.  

Minister for Employment, Alison McGovern, attended the landmark event, commending all stakeholders for their efforts in driving social mobility and workplace inclusivity. 

As we continue into 2025, the SRC stands at the forefront of tackling labour market challenges. The initiative, founded by PeoplePlus and SRAG, aims to address pressing workforce shortages and skills gaps through socially responsible recruitment strategies. 

Addressing the UK’s labour market challenges 

The UK labour market faces significant challenges that demand innovative solutions.  
 
Key concerns include: 

• Construction Workforce Shortages: The industry requires 250,000 workers to meet project deadlines and an additional 159,000 to achieve housing targets (Financial Times). 

• Skills Gaps Across Sectors: One in five employers struggles to fill critical roles due to a lack of skilled candidates (The Telegraph). 

• Wage Growth Pressure: A 5.2% rise in wages indicates a tight labour market, emphasising the need for new workforce solutions (Financial Times). 

These challenges highlight the urgency of leveraging inclusive recruitment practices to tap into overlooked talent pools and drive economic growth. 

City of Bristol College’s Commitment 

By signing the Social Recruitment Covenant, City of Bristol College is taking a proactive approach to bridging skills gaps, supporting job seekers and strengthening the local economy.  
 
The college remains dedicated to working alongside industry partners, policymakers and community organisations to create meaningful employment opportunities and build a more inclusive workforce. 

As the Social Recruitment Covenant gains momentum across the UK, City of Bristol College stands as a proud advocate for change, helping to shape a fairer and more accessible labour market for all.