Bridge of Hope (Project Racing)
Bridge of Hope Logo

The Bridge of Hope will help charities showcase their job-ready talent to progressive employers who embrace Inclusive Recruitment” - removing the barriers to hiring the best new talent from disadvantaged groups. 

While laying the foundations for a digital inclusive talent network to feature all cohorts across all sectors, The Bridge of Hope is piloting in the horse racing industry.

The British racing industry has universally embraced the project and can rightly lay claim to be the worlds first industry or sport to truly embrace Open Recruitment.

Our mission is simple. Provide hope to those who have taken a stumble in life, through a meaningful, new career. Our vision is Job Access For All.

 

THE INSPIRATION

2018 was the 60th anniversary of the triumphant win by our founder, Georges father - Arthur- in the Grand National, but also tragically the 50th anniversary of his life collapse from a potent cocktail of concussion, gambling, alcohol and mental health.

2018 was the third anniversary of Co-Founder, James’ life collapse where he lost everything through a combination of bad people, bad timing and bipolar disorder. We want to turn these two deeply traumatic experiences into a catalyst for good.

 

THE PLAN

Our thinking is to create the worlds first truly Inclusive Talent Network. The Bridge of Hope – for amazing people with unique, but unappreciated talents.

These will include – but not be limited to – homeless, mental and physical health sufferers, former addicts, ex-offenders, former elite athletes /artists, refugees and veterans. Research proves that these groups work harder, stay longer and are great for the reputation.

 

THE MISSING LINK

There are plenty of brilliant charities taking the fallen victims of the above life challenges and providing them with wonderful pastoral care, but they typically stop at getting the talent Job Ready”. However, research proves that the single biggest game changer of life chances is an actual job. Conversely, there are nearly a million unfilled job vacancies in the UK, but employers are largely ignoring this amazing talent pool.

 

THE IDEA

The Bridge of Hope will help charities showcase their job-ready talent to progressive employers who embrace Inclusive Recruitment” - removing the barriers to hiring the best new talent from disadvantaged groups. The kicker is the charities provide a 1-year warranty for new hires.

 

THE PILOT

Change Open Recruitment to Inclusive Recruitment. In partnership with our amazing training providers, we are developing the following career pathways for work riders and yard staff in stables, grooms in stud farms, hospitality and maintenance jobs on racecourses and clerical roles across the entire industry. Our first candidates are starting specialist training right now!

 

MEDIA TO DATE

Turning a tragic tale into a catalyst for good

The genesis of  the Bridge of Hope

Luck On Sunday Interview

Legendary Commentators Trust Backs The Bridge of Hope

Horse Racing Provides new hope to those who have tumbled

 

PROJECT LEADERSHIP

Co-Founders – George Freeman MP & James Fellowes

Governance and Compliance/Project management – Michael Corrigan – Resume Foundation

Head of Partnerships and Developments – James Fellowes – Resume Foundation

 

Finally a word from our Global Ambassador, Monty Roberts – The Man Who Listens to Horses