4/02/2026
Finding meaningful ways to volunteer as a fully remote team isn’t always straightforward, but the Institute of Employability Professionals (IEP) is proving it can be done – and making a real difference to young people in the process.
Last week, Anita Houghton FIEP, Chief Operating Officer, and Ruth Hanson FIEP, Head of Growth, volunteered with The Cheshire and Warrington Pledge Partnership at their Mock Assessment Centre, supporting over 60 young people as they prepared to take their first steps into the world of work.
‘Dragon’s Den’ Meets Career Development
The day saw the IEP leaders put students through their paces in a realistic assessment centre environment. They conducted interviews, tested sales pitches with “fierce Dragon’s Den–style questions,” and observed group tasks, providing valuable feedback designed to build both confidence and practical skills.
“We met so many inspiring young people preparing to take their first steps into the world of work, as well as local employers who are passionate about supporting them,” said Anita. “Those first steps matter – and the support young people receive early on can shape how they feel about work for years to come.”
Connecting Education with Business
The Pledge Partnership works to bridge the gap between education and business, providing career guidance, apprenticeship focus days, and sector-specific insights for young people aged 14-18 across Chester, Cheshire West, and Warrington.
For Ruth, the opportunity to support the initiative aligned perfectly with IEP’s mission. “It was an honour to support this project, a pledge that brings employers and Further Education providers together to broaden the young people’s understanding of what skills employers are looking for over and above qualifications,” she said.
Throughout the day, the 60-plus young people received personalised feedback across multiple areas crucial to their employability: their CVs, group work abilities, presentation skills, and interview technique.
Remote Teams, Real Impact
The volunteering day represents a creative solution to a challenge many remote organisations face.
“The Institute of Employability Professionals team have been exploring ways we can volunteer as a fully remote team – not always an easy challenge!” Anita acknowledged. “We decided to approach this in smaller groups, and the Senior Leadership Team were especially keen to support young people at the beginning of their career journeys.”
The smaller group approach allows the IEP Team to make a tangible impact in communities while working around the constraints of remote working.
“A huge thank you to everyone involved for such a rewarding and well organised day.”