Rebuilding Futures Alliance (RFA) is a purpose-driven organisation committed to breaking down barriers to employment for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. Working across the UK, RFA partners with employers in the transport sector, government bodies, and frontline charities to deliver employment opportunities that create real, long-term careers. Through targeted support, data-led insights, and a values-based approach, RFA helps people realise their potential and build sustainable futures.
In a powerful demonstration of social purpose and collaboration, 16 individuals, including care leavers and ex-offenders were interviewed for roles with Merseyrail, following the successful completion of a pre-employment training programme. Of those, five have now been offered roles, pending final medical reviews.
The initiative was the result of a dynamic partnership between RFA, Inside Connections, and Merseyrail, with funding support from DWP. It showcases the impact that can be made when values-led organisations unite around a common goal and provide real-world opportunities for those often left behind.
The programme, hosted in Liverpool and led by charity partner Inside Connections, started with 42 participants and included a comprehensive mix of skills training, values-based learning, and immersive experiences designed to prepare candidates for careers within the transport sector.
“This is what social value looks like in action,” says Gabby Ellison, Chief Operating Officer, who helped lead the interview process alongside Phil McGuffie, Head of HR Services at Merseyrail. “From day one, you could feel the energy and determination among the candidates. Many of them have never had an opportunity like this before, and they absolutely rose to the challenge.”
The course covered a range of workplace essentials, including Health and Safety, teamwork, and professional communication. Importantly, it also included training specifically aligned with Merseyrail’s own company values, helping candidates understand the standards and culture of a leading UK transport operator.
A guided tour of Merseyrail’s network and facilities allowed participants to visualise themselves in a professional environment, many for the first time.
“This was more than just a training course. It was the first step in building a future,” says Barbara McDonough, Director, at Inside Connections. “The pride these individuals felt walking into that interview room was unbelievable. For some, it was the first time anyone had taken them seriously.”
Inside Connections, which is based in Liverpool, works with people from challenging backgrounds, such as ex-offenders, care leavers, and those long-term unemployed, to prepare them for sustainable employment through holistic support, mentoring and job-specific training.
Barbara continued: “We’ve always believed that, with the right support, anyone can turn their life around. This programme proves that belief correct.”
The programme’s success is in large part thanks to the proactive leadership of Neil Grabham, Managing Director of Merseyrail and an RFA Board Member, who has championed inclusive employment and social value initiatives across the business.
“Neil has created a culture at Merseyrail that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and genuinely purpose-driven,” says Gabby. “His leadership sets the tone, and it’s no surprise that this programme was so well received by his team.”
The interview day marked a significant milestone for participants, several of whom had come through the criminal justice system or faced instability growing up. With five roles already offered and more to follow, the initiative is directly creating life-changing outcomes.
Merseyrail has already committed to running another programme in August, this time expanding the intake to 10 candidates, further demonstrating its commitment to being a driver of change in the region.
“The fact that Merseyrail is ready to do this again speaks volumes,” says Barbara. “This isn’t a one-off box-ticking exercise. It’s a genuine, embedded commitment to social inclusion.”
RFA will continue to track each candidate’s progress through its Automatic Tracking System for up to two years. This ensures continued support, as well as data insights that can guide future improvements to the programme.
“We want this to be sustainable,” Gabby added. “By tracking outcomes, we can demonstrate long-term impact through the results.”
Breaking the stigma
In a world where ex-offenders and care leavers often face stigma, this programme is proof that with the right structure, belief, and leadership, change is possible and scalable.
The partnership between Merseyrail, RFA and Inside Connections sends a clear message that everyone deserves a second chance, and organisations have the power to be part of the solution.
“This isn’t just about filling vacancies, it’s about transforming lives,” says Barbara. “It’s about showing people that they matter, that they can succeed, and that their past doesn’t have to define their future.”
A model for the future
With strong results, inspirational stories, and a growing appetite for similar programmes across other sectors, this model is already gaining attention.
“What we’ve done in Liverpool can absolutely be replicated in other parts of the UK,” says Gabby. “This is a blueprint for partnership-driven, purpose-led employment solutions that work, not just for business, but for society.”
As the week drew to a close, the atmosphere at the final interview session was described as “electric.” Candidates left with smiles, hope, and the knowledge that, for the first time in a long time, they were heading in the right direction.
“We can’t underestimate the impact this kind of experience has,” says Gabby. “These individuals are bringing passion, resilience, and loyalty to the table, qualities any employer would value.”
Looking ahead
With the next programme already scheduled for August and a strengthened commitment from all partners, this is only the beginning.
Just imagine the impact if every organisation in Merseyrail’s supply chain committed to employing just one person from a disadvantaged background. The ripple effect would be extraordinary. It would send a powerful message across the region, that opportunity, dignity, and inclusion are values we can all stand behind. With hundreds of companies involved in the supply chain, the collective potential to drive meaningful social change is right at our fingertips.
To Neil Grabham and the Merseyrail team, to the tireless mentors at Inside Connections, and to the candidates who believed in themselves, we say thank you.
This is what transformation looks like. And it’s only just getting started.
