Past Events

Event Date Description
Lunch & Learn: Everyday Technology for Accessibility within the Workplace Thursday 21 March 2024

The Oaks Specialist College works with young adults aged 19-25 with Learning Disabilities. We utilise everyday technologies as assistive technology to give autonomy of independence. Working with stakeholders and employers we help to train and provide context for assistive technology within the workplace. From built-in accessibility features in laptops to apps on phones, supporting our young people into meaningful work this session will look at the impact of these features through case studies and real world applicability. 

Learning Outcomes: 

  • Investigate everyday technology and its applicability for independence 

  • Understand ,through case studies ,the applicability of assistive tech features in supported employment 

Who suitable for: 

  • Those offering supported internships/ employment (employers) 

  • Support workers of young people in supported internships/ employment 

  • Education settings working with supported internships/ employment 

For more information and to register your interest please log into the membership system.  

https://base-uk.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1831062&group=

BASE Supported Employment Funded Learning Roadshow Thursday 14 March 2024

The Event

This event is specially designed for those who've had a conversation with George Greaves, PTG, or participated in our BASE SESD "Lunch & Learn" events. We're taking things to the next level, focusing on specialised programs that promise to transform your professional capabilities within the Supported Employment sector.

Who Should Attend?

This event is a must for all BASE members and non-members who have engaged with our team regarding the fund. Whether you're a line manager, an employee eager to enrol in one of our transformative programs, or a seasoned leader in the support and care sectors, our Roadshow offers deep insights into educational opportunities that pave the way for significant personal and professional growth. 14th March, 2024 BASE Supported Employment Funded Learning Roadshow

Why Attend? For an individual you will gain in-depth knowledge about each program and how they can enhance your personal professional journey. For an employer you will discover how these educational opportunities can boost the effectiveness and efficiency of your organisation, particularly in the Supported Employment space. supported employment

For more information see the attached flyer 

Register for the session on 14th March 2024

Lunch & Learn: Neurodiversity in the Workplace Wednesday 21 February 2024

In this session Lucy Smith, BASE member and founder of Inclusive change at work CIC will explore neurodiversity in the workplace.  

Lucy will discuss a strengths based approach to supporting neurodivergent adults in the workplace along with exploring ways we can reduce barriers for neurodivergent young people and adults.  

This session is great for BASE members who want to gain a greater understanding of neurodiversity and why it is important for developing stronger teams and diverse workplaces. By looking at the topic from different perspectives, particularly employers that we work with, we can find ways to support more young people.  

Lucy works with organisations and individuals to help them understand more about neurodiversity so we can all thrive.  

For more information and to register your interest please log into the membership system.

https://base-uk.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1831061&group=

Learn More About Workforce Development Funding with George Greaves Tuesday 13 February 2024

 The upcoming free Lunch and Learn session proivdes a unique opportunity to explore the significance of reskilling and apprenticeships within the workforce.

This initiative in partnership with BASE, will introduce fully funded, tailored educational programmes and extended support employment organisations, focusing on professional development in areas like coaching, leadership, management, digital, data and front-line support skills. Designed for a wide audience, from new supervisors to seasoned leaders and care workers, these programmes are integrated into organizational cultures to promote learning alongside work, fostering talent growth within.

Apprenticeships for existing staff are especially critical, serving as a bridge to keep employees abreast of industry changes and technological advancements. They provide a structured path for continuous skill enhancement, vital for personal career growth and organizational success. This approach not only boosts morale and retention but also drives productivity and innovation.

By attending this session, participants will gain valuable insights into harnessing educational opportunities for significant professional development, ultimately benefiting both individuals and their organisations in the dynamic employment landscape.

Come along to next Tuesday Lunch & Learn to hear more from George Greaves on how your organisations can take advantage of this brilliant offer.

BASE Members please book your place via the BASE Community Platform , non-members should email gillian.parker@base-uk.org for the joining details 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lunch & Learn : Disability Employment Charter Tuesday 6 February 2024

Disabled people currently experience significant labour market disadvantage, as demonstrated by large and enduring disability employment and pay gaps. This session will introduce the Disability Employment Charter (www.disabilityemploymentcharter.org), the aim of which is to persuade government to implement policies focused on addressing this disadvantage.

By the end of the session, participants will have been introduced to the Disability Employment Charter, the research underpinning it, and the steps that have been taken since its launch to influence the policies of both the government and opposition parties.

The session is suitable for participants with an interest in the development and reform of government policies (disability workforce and pay gap reporting, supported employment programmes, Access to Work, Disability Confident etc.) aimed at addressing disabled people’s labour market outcomes.

For more information and to register your interest please log into the membership system.  

https://base-uk.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1821105 

 

Lunch & Learn : Job Matching Tuesday 12 December 2023

Join this free lunch and learn session to revisit why it's important to get job matching right. This session is suitable employment advisors, job coaches and supported employment managers and team leaders

In the world of supported employment, we all share a passion for supporting jobseekers into work.

But are we always confident it’s the right job for them.

Are we using the right tools to make sure it’s right for both the jobseeker and the employer?

This workshop with look at what tools we have and how we can use them effectively to get our jobseekers good job matches.

The learning outcomes will cover;

  • Understand why it is important we get job matching right.
  • Understand the importance of using a vocational profile and job analysis to make an effective job match for jobseekers and employers.
  • Understand assessing the skills gap and if it is bridgeable.
  • Understand why assessing workplace health, safety and well-being is part of job matching.

Suitable for employment advisors, job coaches and supported employment managers and team leaders

For more information and to register your interest please log into the membership system.  

https://base-uk.site-ym.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1806605

 

South West Members Regional Forum Thursday 7 December 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from Alex Seddon

 

BASE Annual General Meeting Friday 1 December 2023

The BASE Annual General Meeting will take place online via Microsoft Teams.

An agenda, any associated papers and the joining link will be sent out to all current paid up members soon.

Midlands Regional Members Forum Thursday 23 November 2023

Venue: virtual

Open to BASE members who are in the Midlands Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for the meeting is available from Julia Green 

 

BASE 2023 Conference Tuesday 14 November 2023 to Wednesday 15 November 2023

We're delighted to announce that the BASE 2023 Conference, will take place in Leicester 14th-15th November at Mercure's The Grand.

Building upon the amazing energy of our 2022 conference, we will continue to celebrate the amazing work that is happening across our BASE community, share best practice and learn together.

Sponsorship

The principal 2023 conference sponsor is Inclusive Trading CIC, however we're still seeking further sponsors. 

Find more information in our sponsorship brochure or on our conference page .

BASE Awards

We've refreshed the awards and added some new categories.... check out our 2023 Awards Page for more info 

 

Delegate Only  Prices 

Member £300 + VAT

Workshop Presenter £240 +vat 

Non-member £500 +vat 

 

Exhibitor & Delegate Package 

Non-members £650 + VAT includes 1 delegate place

Members £450+ VAT including 1 delegate place 

Visit our conference page for details of speakers and workshops and to book your place.

 

 

North West Regional Members Forum Friday 10 November 2023

Venue: Virtual 

Open to BASE members who are in the North West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this.

Meeting invites have been sent via the new BASE Community Platform 

 

Finding your way around the BASE Community Platform Wednesday 25 October 2023

Want to know how to use the Member Only Community Platform?

Struggling to log in or find your way around the features?

Join this awareness session to learn more about what the BASE Community platform can do for you! 

Book your place here 

South West Regional Members Forum Wednesday 11 October 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this .

More information is available from Alex Seddon

South East Regional Members Forum Thursday 28 September 2023

Venue: Online

Open to BASE members who are in the South East Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from David Stenning

 

North East Members Forum Wednesday 27 September 2023

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

Information and the Zoom link are available from Raph Taylor

Scotland Regional Members Meeting Tuesday 22 August 2023

Venue : The Board Room,

HMP Low Moss,

Crosshill Road

Bishopbriggs

Glasgow

G64 2QB

Further information is available from Alistair Kerr

South West Regional Members Forum Tuesday 15 August 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from Alex Seddon

Midlands Regional Members forum Thursday 10 August 2023

Venue: Virtual 

Open to BASE members who are in the Midlands Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for the meeting is available from Julia Green 

The Basic Fundamentals of Disability Equity Wednesday 19 July 2023

One in five people in the UK have an impairment and in this engaging session led by Michael Grimmett gives the low down on the latest legislation, language and approaches to improving equity for Disabled People.  

Michael is a Disability Inclusion Specialist by experience who supports businesses to look at disability differently. Michael is a well-rounded practitioner with professional, academic and real-life experience of impairments. Michael has successfully delivered training to businesses in varying sectors including, Prezzo, Local Space and I-talk (NHS).

The aim of his session is to make BASE members feel confident in offering an exemplary destination for great service and inclusive facilities for customers with visible and hidden impairments.  You don’t need spend a lot of money to be accessible and inclusive – small things can make a big difference.  

The session will be very interactive, using a polling tool called MentiMeter, so please bring your laptop and smart phone.  If you only have one of these, you can still fully take part and interact.

Rather than focusing on people’s health conditions or impairments, Michael clearly highlights the barriers that exclude Disabled People from fully participating in our society, while understanding the nervousness many of us feel when talking about disability. Michael will share personal insight and practical guidance about how businesses can help make necessary change for the better, removing barriers so disabled people are fully included within mainstream activities both personally and professionally.

The session is suitable for anybody who wishes to develop and balance inclusive strategic development with the practical implementation of measures that deliver change within their organisation. Michael’s session offers a friendly, non-judgemental and welcoming learning environment bringing people together to support their professional learning.

Book your place on this free session via Eventbrite

 

 

Lunch & Learn: Facilitating & Implementing Working Interviews with Employers Monday 10 July 2023

Background

For those of us that work in Supported Employment, we know all too well that our learners can be at a massive disadvantage when it comes to the current world of recruitment. To put things simply, there is a difference between being able to do a job and being able to talk about doing a job. However positively promoting working interviews with employers sometimes isn’t enough, like anything, we need to support them to implement and reassure them that some people need to be treated differently in order to be treat equally.

This workshop will look at Working Interviews as a general concept and also go into detail about how to sell, implement and will give advice on how to support both the employer throughout the process.

Learning Outcomes

This Lunch and Learn session will cover

•           What is a working Interview?

•           The changing landscape of recruitment – Artificial Intelligence

•           How to implement Inclusive Application Processes

•           How to sell the concept of Working Interviews positively to employers

•           Effectively demonstrate and promote the business case

•           Understand Positive Action

•           Identify key task in the Job Description

•           Implement Working Interviews for alternative recruitment methods

•           Fully supporting the employer

•           How to promote your successes.

Session is suitable for

Employment Advisers, SE Managers & Job Coaches – plus anyone in business with an active interest in recruitment.

Book your place via eventbrite 

About Mitch

Mitch has worked for Specialist Employment Service and Kent Supported Employment for the last 30 years, starting at the tender age of 23 as one of the service’s first Job Coaches.

Since 2020 Mitch has been the services full time Training Coordinator, which involves delivering TSI training, training practitioners across the UK (and Europe) on the key stages and principles of supported employment.

When Mitch actually has any spare time he plays guitar, watch’s 70’s martial art Hong Kong cinema, cooking and dog walking – not at the same time he is quick to point out.

North East Members Forum Wednesday 5 July 2023

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

Information and the Zoom link are available from Raph Taylor

North West Members Regional Forum Friday 30 June 2023

Venue: Friends' Meeting House 

6 Mount Street,

Manchester,

M2 5NS

Instructions to get to the Friends Meeting House 

Open to BASE members who are in the North West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

Please contact Rachel Jones North West NEC Representative for further information 

ADHD- Motivation & Working Patterns Thursday 22 June 2023

Part of the BASE Members -only,  Lunch & Learn Sessions we're delighted to host Phil Wade, founder of Breaking Cycles CIC to speak about ADHD: Motivation & Working Patterns.

Phil is passionate about cycling and the positive effect it has on physical and mental health and so he created Breaking Cycles in August 2019 to share his passion for 2 wheels and positive behaviour change with others. 

His background is education and he has expertise and qualifcations in neurolinguistic programming, cycle training , MTB leadership & teaching

During this session Phil will cover general information about ADHD, what (the current theories suggest) happens in the brain, how it impacts behaviour and motivation and common coping strategies. He will create as much opportunity as possible for people to ask questions about his own experiences of ADHD.

This session is suitable for anyone working with people with ADHD as an employer, educator, work coach, co-worker etc.

Book via Eventbrite 

South West Regional Forum Wednesday 14 June 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from Alex Seddon

Lunch & Learn : Building Essential Skills in an Inclusive Way Tuesday 13 June 2023

The Skills Builder Partnership

“Individuals with higher levels of essential skills are less likely to be unemployed, or out of work and education… For the most disadvantaged in our society, essential skills in a portfolio with basic skills are associated with social mobility and escaping the Skills Trap.”    Data from the Essential Skills Tracker 2023


The Skills Builder Partnership exists so that, one day, everyone will build the essential skills to succeed.

Essential skills as those highly transferable skills that almost everyone needs to do almost every job.  These are listening, speaking, problem solving, creativity, staying positive, aiming high, leadership and teamwork.  They unlock learning in the classroom and halve the likelihood of being out of work, increasing earnings across a lifetime.  They even boost wellbeing and life satisfaction.

But access to these skills isn’t fair.  And where they are missed, it undermines social mobility, productivity and wellbeing.  We think everyone, at every stage of their lives, should have the opportunities to build them. The Skills Builder Universal Framework makes it possible for everyone to teach, learn, and measure essential skills.

In this session, Tom Varley, Lead Associate for Inclusion at the Skills Builder Partnership will provide members with an opportunity to learn more about the Skills Builder Universal Framework and how this supports all individuals to reflect upon, apply, learn and measure progression in essential skill development.

Tom will share some of the research data behind the importance in these skills in education, employment and wider life outcomes.  He will also look at examples of best practice from a range of settings, as well as providing members with the opportunity to explore some of the free-to-access tools and resources to build essential skills in an inclusive way for all individuals.

This session is will give members an overview of the framework and some useful ideas and tools to take back and apply in their own practice.  It is intended for everyone with an interest in building and developing their own and/or others’ essential skills, including employment officers, training providers, apprenticeship managers and individuals doing this individually and/or with support.

Book your free place via Eventbrite

 

South East Regional Members Forum Thursday 25 May 2023

Venue: Online

Open to BASE members who are in the South East Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from David Stenning

 

Internships Work: Become a Peer Reviewer Tuesday 23 May 2023

Become an Internships Work Peer Reviewer

In this session, Lily Beyer, Project Manager for Inclusive Trading working in partnership with the British Association for Supported Employment (BASE) will outline the benefits of becoming a peer reviewer for the Internships Work programme and how you can get involved.

Context:

As part of the Internships Work programme a revised Supported Internship Quality Assurance Framework (SIQAF) has been published. We will be delivering over 200 peer reviewed self-assessments using this new SIQAF between April 23 and Mar 25. To deliver these we are looking to recruit peer reviewers.

Peer reviewing is an opportunity to develop your professional practice, build networks and share learning across the sector.

This lunch and learn will be delivered online and is designed for anyone involved in delivering Supported Internships who is interested in learning more about the Peer Reviewer role.

This free session will run on  Tuesday 23rd May 2023 12-1 and is open to non-members.

Please via our Eventbrite page

The Supported Employment Framework; An Auditors Perspective. Tuesday 16 May 2023

Free Lunch & Learn Session for BASE members

In this session, Holly Kelleher, an experienced Inclusive Trading Associate will explore the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) standards & share ideas on how these can be evidenced through interactive group participation.

Holly will also provide an overview of how the Supported Employment Quality Framework. audit process works, what happens at an audit and how to prepare for one.

Background to SEQF 

The Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) was launched in 2017 as a result of an ERASMUS project involving BASE and five transnational partners.

The main objective in developing a quality framework for supported employement agencies was to improve services for vulnerable job seekers, employees and their employers.

In 2018, BASE implemented a shortened version of the original SEQF that demonstrates model fidelity within Supported Employment against the five stages of supported employment, business results and relevant Key Performance Indicators. It contains a scored self-assessment toolkit for organisations which can be used to prioritise actions to further improve the quality of support offered to jobseekers and employers and is free to use. 

Organisations can request model fidelity assessments through to review their self assessment and evidence for the potential of being awarded a kitemark.  This was tested as part of the proof of concept for the DWP Local Supported Employment Initiative. 

BASE in partnership with Inclusive Trading now offers model fidelity audits for any provider seeking to improve the quality of their services against the model fidelity version.

Book your place 

BASE Model Fidelity 

SEQF Theory Handbook

SEQF Practice Handbook 

Internships Work: Supported Internship Quality Assurance Framework Tuesday 16 May 2023

The Supported Internship Quality Assurance Framework: how it can help you.

Join Lily Beyer, Project Manager for Inclusive Trading working in partnership with the British Association for Supported Internship, to learn more about the newly published Supported Internship Quality Assurance Framework (SIQAF) and how it can help you and your supported internship (SI) provision.

Background to the SIQAF:

As part of the Internships Work programme the Supported Internship Quality Framework, developed for the Department for Education by the Education and Training Foundation and their centres for excellence in 2022, was reviewed and amended, after being trialled with ten SI providers. The revised version has now been published and is available to be used by all SI providers and their delivery partners.

The revised SIQAF has been designed as a self-assessment tool to support you to determine the quality and success of your SI programme. It will highlight your strengths and should be used as an annual continuous improvement tool.

For educators and SI providers and partners this session will outline the revised SIQAF, the new scoring system, using the new self-assessment tool and how you can use it to support your continuous improvement efforts. For local authorities, the session will help you understand how the SIQAF self-assessment process can be used to support your local action plans.

This session is also running on Tues 16 May and Weds 31st May visit our Eventbrite page and reserve your preferred dates Book tickets 

 


 

Midlands Regional Members Forum Thursday 27 April 2023

Venue: In Person

Open to BASE members who are in the Midlands Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

Further information on the meeting location and agenda is available from Julia Green 

 

Lunch & Learn : Supported Employment & Self Employment Wednesday 26 April 2023

The world of work has seen many changes over the last few years, including a pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis. Disabled people, especially those with multiple and learning disabilities, are finding it harder to obtain meaningful employment, with fewer accessible jobs and increased barriers to work.  When thinking about non-traditional career opportunities, self-employment is often a serious consideration for disabled people but there needs to be a lot of support in place to make it sustainable.

 

Sam Everard founded SAMEE, a charity which meets the needs of disabled people and creates opportunities for them to fulfil their full potential. This lunch and learn session is about SAMEE’s journey into delivering entrepreneurship support which is relevant as well as our discovery into how the holistic needs of disabled people are just as important as the formal self-employment support on offer.  

 

Sam is also Chair of the South West Regional Stakeholder Network for the Disability Unit in Cabinet Office and is studying towards a PhD with the Centre of Seldom Heard Voices, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at Bournemouth University.

 

The learning outcome is practical tips to consider when exploring next steps for those leaving supported employment or those considering a self-employed role.

More info about Samee's Steps Into Self-Employment programme

This session is open to BASE members only and you can reserve you place here (eventbrite) 

North East Members Forum Wednesday 26 April 2023

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

Information and the Zoom link are available from Raph Taylor

South West Members Forum Tuesday 11 April 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

More information is available from Alex Seddon

 

North East members forum Wednesday 15 March 2023

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Open to BASE members who are in the North East Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for members is available from  Raph Taylor.

North West Regional Members forum Friday 10 March 2023

Venue: Online ( Teams) 

Open to BASE members who are in the North West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for members is available from Rachel Jones 

Lunch & Learn: Education, Health, & Care Plans Post 16+ Thursday 9 March 2023

BASE is hosting this free lunch and learn session on the topic of Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs).

Open to BASE members and members of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums

This event will focus on EHCPs for supported Internships and post 16 education including when and how an EHCP can be ceased when someone enters employment either full time or part time.

Suitable for schools, colleges, supported internship providers and parent/carers

The session will be run by Amy Martin, who has 8 years of experience in EHCP's and has also spent several years as Tribunal Manager representing in SENDist first tier tribunals.

Reserve your place 

Midlands Regional Members Forum Thursday 23 February 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the Midlands Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for the meeting is available from Julia Green 

South West members forum Thursday 16 February 2023

Venue: Online 

Open to BASE members who are in the South West Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for members is available from Alex Seddon

Free Lunch and Learn -How everyone can successfully harness the power of tech and innovation Thursday 9 February 2023

David Barker was voted one of the UK’s top social entrepreneurs in 2022 by the Social Entrepreneur Index for innovating Techcentre Training, a social enterprise tackling UK unemployment in new ways.

He was also one of the UK’s first internet entrepreneurs in the early 1990’s, working with clients including Intel, Microsoft, Oxfam and Amnesty International.

During this excellent workshop,launched at the BASE Conference in 2022, David, will share insights and learning from his career journey as an entrepreneur and innovator in both business and social enterprise.

Utilising strong case studies, workshop attendees will learn to

  • Identify and overcome challenges when trying to innovate
  • Develop new ventures within long- or newly-established organisations
  • Build successful business models to exploit new opportunities
  • Take new approaches to stakeholder management, governance and funding
  • Develop robust but flexible plans for strategic execution

BASE members can reserve a free place here  

South East Regional Members Forum Thursday 26 January 2023

Venue: Online

Open to BASE members who are in the South East Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE, we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for members is available from David Stenning

Wales Members Forum Thursday 19 January 2023

Venue: This meeting is online (MS Teams) and will start at 2pm.

Open to BASE members who are in the Wales Region

Any organisation or individual who is interested in joining BASE we're happy for you visit a regional meeting to get an insight into what BASE does, please contact Gillian Parker to arrange this 

The joining link for members is available from Petra Kennedy.

Supported Business New Year Catch-up Tuesday 10 January 2023

Supported Business Meeting 

Join this meeting hosted by Mel Walls, National Lead for Supported Businesses to catch up with the latest sector news.

The main business of the meeting will take place 12-1pm but Mel will be availlable until 1 30 pm for anyone who wants to stay on and chat.

The meeting link is available from Mel Walls

Job Coach Café December Meeting Wednesday 14 December 2022

In the next  Job Coach Cafe online meeting we'll be discussing that evergreen subject : Access to Work.

We'll be joined by BASE National Lead Mel Walls, who recently presented an interactive workshop about Access to Work at the BASE Conference in Leeds.

To register for the meeting please click on the link Job Coach Café | Groups | LinkedIn

Hosted by Hilary Fertig from Employment Autism and Judith Kerem from CareTradeUK 

BASE Scotland Members Meeting Tuesday 29 November 2022

Location: The Lady Hague Poppy Factory in Edinburgh

Open to BASE members.

Any organisation or individual who is interested in becoming BASE member, we're happy for you visit one of our regional meetings to get an insight into what BASE does.

For more information please contact Alistair Kerr 

email alistair.kerr@base-uk.org

North East members forum Wednesday 21 September 2022

Venue: Online

Information and the meeting link are available from Raph Taylor

Scotland members forum Wednesday 12 January 2022

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Alistair Kerr

Supported apprenticeship webinar Wednesday 17 November 2021

Apprenticeship training providers are invited to join Dynamic Training's fully funded webinar, delivered on behalf of the Education and Training Foundation, on 17th November 2021. 

There will be a focus on the training provider perspective and the importance of ensuring that your apprenticeship offer to employers is inclusive. 
To book this webinar, click the link that will take you to the Education and Training Foundation booking system:

https://lnkd.in/dkqJKpe5
 

 

BASE AGM Thursday 4 November 2021

The BASE annual general meeting will take place online on 4 November at 2pm.

Details have been sent out to member organisations and our accounts and reports can be found at www.base-uk.org/official-documents.

Members can register to attend at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/base-annual-general-meeting-2021-tickets-184603763827

North East members forum Wednesday 29 September 2021

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Ramsay Taylor.

Midlands members forum Thursday 16 September 2021

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Dean Atkinson

Wales members forum Tuesday 14 September 2021

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the online link are available from Petra Kennedy

Scotland members forum Thursday 26 August 2021

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Alistair Kerr

North East members forum Wednesday 23 June 2021 to Thursday 24 June 2021

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Ramsay Taylor.

Meet the Buyer 2021 Tuesday 8 June 2021

The 12th Annual Meet the Buyer 2021 will take place as a live, virtual event on 8 June 2021. Headline partners include the Scottish Government and Scotland Excel.

Meet the Buyer 2021 is the event of the year for engagement with buyers as the public sector turns towards economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Year on year, the Supplier Development Programme consistently facilitates suppliers with access to the public sector, and though virtual, Meet the Buyer 2021 will provide suppliers with the ability to raise your
profile as a business, as well as learn more about and prepare for upcoming bidding and supply chain opportunities.

Businesses will be able to meet procurement teams from local councils, alongside other public and private sector buying organisations, with new buyers still being confirme

Meet the Buyer 2021 is aimed at all micro, small and medium size organisations from across Scotland. Wherever you are based, and however big your business is, there is something useful to be found at this national Meet the Buyer event!

All suppliers, including non-SMEs, are eligible to attend and must register an account with SDP https://www.sdpscotland.co.uk/register/ to book a place.

Wales members forum Friday 21 May 2021 to Saturday 22 May 2021

Venue: This forum will take place on Teams and starts at 10am.

Information and the Teams link are available from Petra Kennedy.

Quality Assurance in Supported Employment Services Friday 30 April 2021 to Saturday 1 May 2021

This workshop is aimed at raising awareness of the need for quality assurance within Supported Employment services. Employers, jobseekers and funders need to understand the quality of service provision. The lack of inspection means that it is very difficult for them to do just that.

BASE has worked with European partners to develop the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF) and this is now being adopted in a number of European countries. BASE has adapted the framework to provide a model fidelity self-assessment that gives an insight into the quality that customers and commissioners can expect. We offer an independent audit of your self-assessment and we're now issuing quality kitemarks to organisations that meet the criteria.

This training event is free to attend but is only open to staff working for organisations that are members of BASE. Registrations will only be accepted if made using a work email address.

You'll find booking details at https://www.eventbrite.com/x/quality-assurance-in-supported-employment-services-tickets-146581686771

Midlands members forum Thursday 22 April 2021 to Friday 23 April 2021

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Dean Atkinson

North East members forum Wednesday 10 March 2021 to Thursday 11 March 2021

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Ramsay Taylor.

Practitioner Networking Event Tuesday 2 March 2021 to Wednesday 3 March 2021

We are excited to be able to bring you a National BASE Practitioners event hosted by BASE South East Region. This free to attend event is for practitioners working in organisations that are members of BASE and operate in any region. BASE is keen to engage with service practitioners and this event is aimed at them rather than service managers.

We recognise that working on the frontline can sometimes be isolating, given the pandemic and the changes we have all had to make to the way we work then it seems timely to get together to and learn from others.

We have put together a quality, packed programme of speakers and trainers within our industry and associated sectors. They will deliver engaging and interactive workshops aimed specifically at the needs of Supported Employment frontline staff who are working directly with job seekers and employers.

Why should you attend?

  • Hear from quality guest speakers and trainers
  • Recharge your batteries
  • Learn new ideas
  • Develop your network of contacts and ‘go to people’
  • Continuous professional development

This training event is only open to staff working for organisations that are members of BASE. Registrations will only be accepted if made using a work email address. Maximum or two people from each organisation.

Bookings are via Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/supported-employment-practitioner-event-tickets-136795291399

Scotland members forum Thursday 25 February 2021 to Friday 26 February 2021

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Alistair Kerr

Wales members forum Thursday 11 February 2021 to Friday 12 February 2021

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am

Information and the online link are available from Petra Kennedy

South East members forum Thursday 28 January 2021 to Friday 29 January 2021

Venue: This meeting takes place on Zopom and will start at 11am

Information and the Zoom link are available from David Stenning.

Midlands members forum Thursday 21 January 2021 to Friday 22 January 2021

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and will start at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Dean Atkinson.

North East members forum Wednesday 16 December 2020 to Thursday 17 December 2020

Venue: This forum will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Ramsay Taylor.

Supported Business meeting Thursday 10 December 2020

Venue: Online using Zoom

Presenter: Mel Walls (BASE)

Guest speakers include Martin Davies, Chair of the Supported Business Steering Group

Following the success of our June workshop, BASE is organising a similar event on Thursday 10th December, from 2 to 3.30pm. The workshop will discuss the most recent developments from the Supported Business Steering Group and seek feedback from you on:

  • The operation of TESG
  • The ongoing challenges of Covid-19 
  • Funding for Supported Businesses from April 2020
  • The roll out of phase 2 of the Proof of Concept for future funding
  • Future engagement with public sector procurement opportunities

Registration is free for this event but it is open to Supported Businesses onlyRegistrations will only be accepted if a work email address is used when making the booking.

We will email your Zoom log-in details a couple of days prior to the workshop. We may need to limit places to 1 per organisation.

Book now  

BASE Annual General Meeting Wednesday 25 November 2020 to Thursday 26 November 2020

BASE members are invited to join the 2020 BASE AGM. Registration is via Eventbrite and our accounts and annual reports are available to view at www.base-uk.org/official-documents.

This meeting is open only to staff employed by BASE member organisations. Registrations will only be accepted if the booking is made using a work email address.

Following the AGM we will have short presentations from a range of external speakers:

  • Hugh Pullinger (Head of Disability and Work Opportunities Division, DWP)
  • Katharine Davies (Team Leader, Preparation for Adulthood, DfE)
  • Matt Wood (Owner of Millwood Servicing)
  • Huw Davies (BASE)

Your registration will be noted and the organisers will send you a Zoom link around 23rd November.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/base-annual-general-meeting-tickets-124282824273

Midlands Practitioner Event Wednesday 11 November 2020 to Thursday 12 November 2020

This free to attend event is for practitioners working in organisations that are members of BASE and operate across our Midlands region. BASE is keen to engage with service practitioners and this event is aimed at them rather than service managers.

We recognise that working on the frontline can sometimes be isolating and hope that this event will be the launch of what will become the BASE Midlands Practitioners Network, an opportunity for people involved in our sector to get together and meet with like-minded people.

Given the pandemic and the changes we have all had to make to the way we work then it seems really timely to take a little time out and get together to share ideas and learn from each other.

Why should you attend?

  • Represent your service and promote the work you are doing
  • Meet with people who experience the same challenges
  • Share success stories and develop solutions together
  • Hear from guest speakers
  • Develop your network of contacts and ‘go to people’
  • Continuous professional development

This training event is only open to staff working for organisations that are members of BASE. Registrations will only be accepted if made using a work email address.

Bookings can be made through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/base-midlands-practitioner-event-tickets-125500706993

 

Programme

2:00 Welcome Dean Atkinson (BASE Midlands)

2:10 BASE engagement with service practitioners Huw Davies (CEO, BASE)

2:20 Workshop - 3 ways to stand out from the crowd when calling employers Audrey Bodman (Outshine Telephone Training & Consultancy)

2:50 Comfort break

3:00 Workshop - Making the most of social media Gillian Parker (BASE)

3:30 Workshop – Supported Employment in a brave new world  Kathy Melling (BASE)

4:20 Review and close Dean Atkinson

North West members forum Friday 6 November 2020 to Saturday 7 November 2020

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and starts at 10am

Information and the Zoom link are available from Rachel Jones

Midlands members forum Thursday 5 November 2020 to Friday 6 November 2020

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and starts bat 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Dean Atkinson.

Scotland members forum Tuesday 20 October 2020 to Wednesday 21 October 2020

Venue: This forum takes place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and the Zoom link are available from Alistair Kerr.

Increasing Awareness And Visibility Of Disabilities In The Workplace Thursday 1 October 2020
  • Public Sector Rate: £389.00
  • Private Sector Rate: £575.00
  • Voluntary Sector Rate: £315.00

The public sector has an important role in setting an example for other sectors in creating a truly diverse and inclusive workplace. Only then, by sharing best practice originating from the public sector will wider change occur in all forms of employment. At this event delegates will hear of leading initiatives from public institutions and the third sector alike. Providing visible disabled leadership, training and educating staff of the challenges disabled people face and pertinently, discussing the appropriate manner in which to support those with disabilities and long-term mental health conditions in the workplace.

At this conference, chaired by Julia Green (BASE Chair), attendees will hear updates from both the sectors on the current state of play for disabled employees and from ACAS on the legal implications of harassment and discrimination in the workplace. This will be complemented by case studies from across the public sector on creating a work environment in which disabled people feel truly welcome and supported.

Booking details: https://www.governmentevents.co.uk/event/disability-awareness-visibility-in-the-workplace/

South East members forum Friday 25 September 2020 to Saturday 26 September 2020

Venue: This meeting will take place on Zoom and is open to all BASE members in London and the South East of England.

Information and joining details: David Stenning

Employability in Scotland Thursday 24 September 2020

Venue: Central Edinburgh, Live streamed
Cost: £325 to £595+vat

Holyrood Insight’s second Employability in Scotland Conference will explore the impact of COVID-19 on the workforce with an estimated 750,000* employees registered on the jobs Retention Scheme. Speakers include BASE NEC member, Alistair Kerr. 

Considering the achievements and opportunities of the Government’s flagship policy, Fair Start Scotland, we will review how employers can respond to the health crisis and what support is available at both a national and local level. 

You will hear innovative strategies that are helping to recover Scotland’s economy including utilising working from home, developing productivity and creating new opportunities.Gain insight from key stakeholders on the support projects designed to bridge the disability employment gap, reduce youth unemployment, reintegrate recovering individuals, and stimulate the social enterprise sector.

https://www.holyroodinsight.com/event/3467/Employability_in_Scotland__A_One_Day_Conference

North East members forum Wednesday 23 September 2020 to Thursday 24 September 2020

Venue: This meeting will take place on Zoom and starts at 10am.

Information and joining details: Ramsay Taylor

Midlands members forum Thursday 27 August 2020 to Friday 28 August 2020

This meeting will take place on Zoom and is open to all BASE members in the Midlands.

Details and log-in: Dean Atkinson

North West members forum Friday 21 August 2020 to Saturday 22 August 2020

This meeting has been postponed. We will give notice of an alternative date soon.

Details and log-in: Rachel Jones

South East members forum Thursday 6 August 2020 to Friday 7 August 2020

Venue: This forum will be held on Zoom. Joining instructions from David Stenning.

Information: David Stenning

Supporting the NHS to deliver on its 5-year recruitment pledge Wednesday 5 August 2020

Presenter: Mitch Mitchell (Kent Supported Employment)

Kent Supported Employment has been supporting Kent Community Health Foundation Trust with the NHS 5-year pledge to employ more people with learning disabilities as part of their Workforce Disability Equality Standard; particularly in recruiting more staff from a neuro diverse background.  This session will focus on the collaborative work undertaken and training delivered to the Trust which has led to in excess of 20 paid opportunities for the clients our service supports.  The session will cover:

  • how we initially engaged with the NHS Trust
  • how we supported and influenced the Trust
  • training delivered to Trust personnel
  • The outcomes achieved
  • Covid-19 considerations

 

Booking information: Eventbrite

Access to Work: consultation workshop Wednesday 29 July 2020

Presenter: Huw Davies (BASE)

What's working well with the Access to Work programme and what needs improving? 

We are in discussions with DWP about the Access to Work programme and need your support to highlight the issues faced by providers. This consultation session will give an overview of work to date and seek your views on potential solutions to solve the problems faced around:

  • Communication with advisors, third party consent and the role of appointees
  • Payment rates and advisors seeking copies of staff payslips
  • Application and renewal processes
  • job coaching and supported internships

Registration is free for this event but it is open to BASE members only. Registrations will only be accepted if a work email address is used. We will email your Zoom log-in details a couple of days before this event. We are limiting places to 2 per organisation.

Booking information: Eventbrite

SEQF - A framework for improving service quality Wednesday 22 July 2020

Presenters: Kathy Melling and Huw Davies (BASE)

How do employers know how good your services are?

This workshop will describe the Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF), a self-assessment tool for monitoring the quality of Supported Employment provision. The framework was used to assess model fidelity within the DWP Proof of Concept and will feature in the forthcoming Supported Employment trailblazer. BASE is now awarding 3-year kitemarks to organisations whose audited self-assessments achieve a score threshold.

The workshop will describe how SEQF can be used to assess quality and feed into quality improvement planning. We will discuss how to prepare for a self-assessment and how the external auditing works.

Booking information: Eventbrite

North East members forum Thursday 16 July 2020 to Friday 17 July 2020

Venue: This forum will be held on Zoom. Joining details from Ramsay Taylor.

Information: Ramsay Taylor

Education leading to employment - The big picture and current challenges Wednesday 15 July 2020

Presenter: James Whybra (The Castle School, Newbury)

This will be a very practical workshop so please come along to share your good practice, resources and questions in relation to the following areas (and any others that you want to talk about):

  • Current challenges and how we can overcome them
  • Employment EHCP outcomes and how to get them in to EHCP's
  • Gatsby Benchmarks and the Careers and Enterprise Company Hubs  
  • Employer Engagement and how to keep those relationships in these challenging times

Booking information: Eventbrite

South West members forum Thursday 9 July 2020 to Friday 10 July 2020

Venue: This forum will be on Zoom. Contact Alex for details.

Information: Alex Seddon

Employer Engagement opportunities and good practice sharing during Covid-19 Wednesday 8 July 2020

Presenter: Mark Parrin (Kent Supported Employment)

This session will give you an opportunity to hear what The Education People’s specialist employment service, Kent Supported Employment, is currently doing during Covid-19 to support current and new businesses and how supported employment organisations are adapting to the current climate.  There will also be an opportunity to share ideas and good practice between workshop participants.

Booking information: Eventbrite

Reaching out to jobseekers online & digital safeguarding Wednesday 1 July 2020

Presenter: Andrea Randall-Smith (Little Gate)

Little Gate has always been a supportive, hands on and person centred Supported Employment Organisation.  The pandemic has meant we had to find digitally safe and secure means to communicate and engage with the LD and Autistic community we serve.  We will explain how we assessed and changed our working practices quickly working together to deliver Supported Employment support in a different way; through Zoom, Facebook and telephone contact. 

Booking information: Eventbrite

Supported Business developments Tuesday 30 June 2020

Presenter: Melanie Walls (BASE)

The workshop will discuss the operation of TESG and the recent changes following lobbying by the Supported Business Steering Group. It will also look at how businesses are responding to Covid-19 and future support needs. Topics to be covered include:

  • TESG funding for operational and furloughed staff
  • Interpretation of DWP’s definitions (released recently), queries and feedback you would like to share
  • Understanding the long term implications for TESG employees officially 'shielding'
  • What the next 6 months could look like
  • Challenges for Supported Businesses with a vulnerable workforce
  • Development of a strategy for the next 18 months / 2 years and how you can influence the agenda

Booking information: Eventbrite

North West members forum Friday 26 June 2020

Venue: This forum will be on Zoom. Contact Rachel for details.

Information: Rachel Jones

Using workplace buddies as trainers Wednesday 24 June 2020

Presenter: Alison Thwaite, WorkFit (Down's Syndrome Association)

This workshop will offer an overview of how WorkFit makes use of workplace buddies/mentors in place of a job coach. WorkFit supports a small number of workplace buddies in each location to effectively train and support their colleague who has Down’s syndrome. The workshop will describe the processes used by WorkFit and how they enable natural workplace training to take place without the need for a job coach on site.

Boooking information: Eventbrite

Midlands members forum Thursday 21 May 2020 to Friday 22 May 2020

Venue: Online Zoom meeting

Information and link via Dean Atkinson

Wales members forum Wednesday 22 January 2020 to Thursday 23 January 2020

Venue: Vision Products, Coedcae Lane Industrial Estate, Coedcae Ln, Pontyclun CF72 9HG

Information: Petra Kennedy