Watch: Powering Potential with UK Power Networks

 As the first distribution network operator to partner with the Purpose Coalition, UK Power Networks published an Action Plan to assess the work that it was already doing to drive social mobility, demonstrating impact in at least five of the key areas covered by the Purpose Goals framework.

The Plan proposed a number of ways that the company could go even further. Much of that focus was on improving its community impact through school, youth and adult programmes with clear outcomes. It continues to leverage its best practice to extend its work in delivering social impact towards specific opportunity gaps that the Purpose Coalition identified in the communities it serves.

The provision of a range of realistic work placements is a vital element of that. Its Powering Potential programme is specifically aimed at Year 12 students who come from backgrounds where they may not have had contact or exposure to professional working environments. The two-week placement focuses on a set project with clear objectives which helps participants to develop their employability skills and broaden their understanding of the world of work.