Realise Futures was established in November 2012 and is a social enterprise operating across much of the East of England. The company employs around 340 people, of which approximately 30% are disabled or disadvantaged. We pursue a business strategy based on a diversified model that combines two funded services: adult learning, and supported employment alongside six social businesses (offering paid jobs).Together these component parts provide a holistic approach that enables individuals who are often furthest from the labour market to develop their potential. Our aim is to trade ethically and compete with the private sector on quality of products.
 
Our social mission is to improve and promote the economic and social wellbeing of people in our communities by creating opportunities in learning and work whilst actively contributing to the economies of the communities in which we operate. As a Community Interest Company (CIC), we exist for a social and environmental purpose and reinvest profits back into the business.
 
We have most expertise in helping those who are long-term unemployed, disabled and/or disadvantaged, parents/carers, ex-service personnel and ex-offenders. Success, for us, is measured by the positive impact on the lives of those we support and progress, as well as the profit we generate.
 
In summary, we deliver employment support, life-skills coaching, learning and skills development and run a number of successful social businesses. We manage four cafes and operate a wholefood shop, provide gardening services, grow seasonal produce and plants and sell vegetable boxes, make 100% recycled plastic outdoor furniture, and offer fulfilment services.

Essex Supported Employment Services

We are contracted by Essex County Council to deliver the Supported Employment Programme across Essex to adults with disabilities. Referrals come to our Employment Services from social workers and are allocated to an Employment Advisor who will work with the customer to find suitable employment opportunities.

Support includes:

• Job searching
• Preparation for work
• Interview support
• Pre-employment work trials
• Support to secure voluntary placements
• Individual and/or group vocational training
• On-going in work support

We have offices in Colchester, Chelmsford, Basildon and Harlow with Employment Advisors covering all areas of Essex. If you have any queries about the Essex Supported Employment Service please contact your local office:

Colchester - 01206 752177

Office 11, Space Maker, 572 Ipswich Road, Colchester, Essex, CO4 9HB. 

Chelmsford - 01245 392114 

Unit 14, Waterhouse Business Centre, Cromar Way, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2QE. ​

Basildon - 01268 522008

Ground floor, Acorn House, Little Oaks, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1AH. ​

Harlow - 01279 772969

Office 6, First floor, Harlow Enterprise Hub, Kao Hockham Building, Edinburgh Way, Harlow, Essex,CM20 2NQ​.