Chairpersons Report
Robert King, Chair of the Board
This year, our Annual Report celebrates ‘Growing the Routes To Work Way’ – a phrase that perfectly captures the journey we’ve been on.
Because growth for us isn’t just about expanding into new regions – though we have done that, with new and exciting work in Clackmannanshire, West Lothian and beyond.
It’s about growing well, in a way that stays true to who we are. We’re not chasing turnover or ticking boxes. We’re building something that lasts.
As Chair, I’ve had the privilege of seeing this growth in action – not just in statistics, but in spirit.
This past year we engaged with 2,161 people and supported over 1,000 job outcomes – and 76% of those were sustained beyond six months. That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a direct result of the ethos that runs through every member of our team.
The ‘Routes To Work way’ is something we’ve carved and crafted for over 20 years. It’s an approach built on seeing potential in every person we support. Where others might see gaps or weaknesses, we see strengths. We focus on people’s talents and build from there – not just in employment, but in all aspects of their lives!
That holistic model doesn’t stop with our clients. It’s how we’ve grown as an organisation, too. Our expansion into new areas has been strategic and sustainable – driven by need, not ambition. We go where the people need us, and we build strong links with local employability partners to ensure we offer not just support, but the right support.
That’s what’s so unique about our growth. It’s not just about scale. It’s about depth.
Whether it’s new collaborations with health visitors, life coaching provision, or multi-agency working in West Lothian – we’re embedding ourselves into communities in meaningful, person-centred ways.
Of course, none of this would work without the buy-in of our people.
Our staff are the reason this works – colleagues who have, without hesitation, taken on the challenge of working in new areas with incredible positivity and drive.
As a board member, I’ve been blown away by the energy and focus across the whole organisation though!
Whether it’s a front-line caseworker or a business support role, everyone is pulling in the same direction: making the difference for our clients.
We’ve always said that Routes To Work is ‘different and better’. This year, that difference has grown – not diluted. And that’s something I’m proud to celebrate as Chair.
Long may it continue!
