PAST WINNER INTERVIEW
Nuneaton Signs
AWARD CATEGORY: Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility SIZE OF COMPANY: 31 WHERE BASED: Nuneaton, Warwickshire TYPE OF BUSINESS: Signage Manufacturing Social Enterprise PROFILE: Christopher Wilcox JOB TITLE: Managing Director Company Background Nuneaton Signs was founded in 1982 as a sheltered workshop by the local authority to provide meaningful employment and training for people with disabilities through the manufacture and sale of signs. In 2010, Nuneaton Signs became limited by guarantee in order to adapt to an evolving landscape which saw many similar businesses facing closure due to a change in funding. Thanks to the hard work of its dedicated team and the enduring support of loyal customers, the company has gone from strength to strength since then. Today, Nuneaton Signs is more capable than ever of continuing to support those furthest from the work marketplace to help them find meaningful employment.
What made Nuneaton Signs apply for a King’s Award?
What planning did you do beforehand?
We took a good look at our business. It was wonderful to take the time to reflect on what we do and why it is so important.
One of our customers told us that we should! What we do day-to-day feels ordinary to us, as supporting people and encouraging our team to be the best versions of themselves no matter what barriers they face is something we have always done. However, an outside perspective made us realise that that is exemplary, and worthy of a Kings Award. We [also] hoped that if we won, it might inspire other businesses to think more inclusively. What research did you do about the Awards and application process? We looked into other businesses who had been successful and spoke with advisors in our Lord Lieutenancy Office, who were very supportive and able to answer questions. This showed us that while the process might be lengthy, it certainly was rewarding - and the honour if you are successful is that of the highest calibre.
How did you find the application process?
It was challenging. As a small business we didn’t have much resource to spend [on] writing the application, so it was solely written by one member of our team. She had support in gathering accounts, etc from our finance team, but the questions were answered by one person. I think [this] goes to show that anyone can apply. You don’t have to be a big company - it is possible to achieve this incredible accolade with limited resources.
Did you learn anything about your own company during the process?
It reminded us of all of the good things that we do. It was good to hear from our team members themselves the difference that our business makes to them and has made to theirs and their families’ lives.
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