26th September 2025

Reverse recruitment – a fresh approach

In Sandwell, something a little different happened – a reverse recruitment fair. Instead of employers sitting behind tables waiting for candidates, it was young people with disabilities who set up their own stalls. They shared their CVs, talked about their skills, and explained the kinds of jobs they’d love to do.

Operations Director, Emma Bishop spotted a post about the fair on LinkedIn and decided to go along. She met specialist employment advisors Sam and Kiran, and that was the start of something brilliant.

From that fair, two young people joined us for six-week placements.

Ash took on a business support role with Regional Coordinator, Sorrel Beech. He helped with archiving, data input, stock checks, printing, and even supported an art exhibition. Over the weeks, his confidence grew hugely. He remembered people’s names, chatted easily with managers, and built a portfolio of everything he’d achieved. His family were thrilled – and so were we.

Ash says about the placement:  

I really did enjoy working with you at Dimensions.

I’m so grateful for the time I got to spend with Ash, and I’m confident that in the right environment, with the right people, he will absolutely flourish in a paid work environment.

Regional Coordinator, Sorrel Beech

Gemma joined us in an office cleaning placement, mentored by a volunteer with years of cleaning experience. She learned the ropes, from health and safety to practical skills, and absolutely shone. At the end of her placement, we were so impressed that we offered her a job – her very first. Next week, she officially starts as our office cleaner.

These placements weren’t just about skills. They were about confidence, belonging, and showing what’s possible when opportunities are created differently. Both Ash and Gemma showed us that when the doors open, people walk through with talent and determination.

The whole idea came from a simple post on social media – proof that new ways of doing things can start anywhere. The fair also led to a new placement for a young man who wants to become a personal trainer, now paired with someone we support so they can enjoy sports together.

It’s been a joyful experience for everyone involved – and a reminder that employment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, flipping the script makes all the difference.

If you live outside Sandwell, it’s worth asking whether something like this exists near you. Reverse recruitment fairs benefit both sides: people looking for meaningful opportunities and organisations ready to see ability first.