Fenland Networking Breakfast: Long-Term Commitment to Sustainable Change
The Power of Cross-Sector Collaboration: A Panel Discussion
A panel of experts, including Rebecca Stimson from MJS Construction, Matt Dobbing, Associate Principal at Thomas Clarkson Academy, Simon Jackson, Economic Growth Manager at Fenland District Council, David Page, Employment Adviser at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and Nikki DiGiovanni, Development Director at Remo, led the next discussion. They focused on how businesses and educational institutions can collaborate to address the ‘disconnected’ challenge faced by many young people in Fenland.
Key discussions included the lack of soft skills among young people, such as effective communication and confidence, and how these gaps also affect older individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce. “We need creative, innovative ways to introduce businesses to schools for mentoring and support,” said Dobbing, emphasising the importance of breaking down the barriers between young people and the working world.
Long-Term Commitment to Volunteering and Support
Nikki DiGiovani, from Remo, spoke passionately about the importance of long-term, sustained efforts to create real change in Fenland. She discussed how many initiatives
are brought in by external organisations with short-term funding, only to disappear once the money runs out. “People in Fenland aren’t believing this anymore,” she said. “They want long-term, sustained efforts.” She urged businesses to think more broadly about their role in the community and how they can contribute to creating lasting change.
Rebecca Stimson also shared her experience of getting involved in the local community, saying that people were looking for long-term investment in their region. She gave an example of how her team at MJS Construction helped create a construction zone at Manea school, donating equipment and time. Stimson highlighted how small acts of kindness and long-term support can make a huge difference in local education and community initiatives.
The Importance of Soft Skills and Strategic Career Support
The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration to bridge the gap between young people and the workforce. Matt Dobbing emphasised the importance of teaching soft skills in schools—things like how to behave professionally, express gratitude, and manage difficult conversations. “The first steps are the most important,” he said, explaining that young people need to learn how to learn and apply that knowledge to future opportunities. “Hearing real people from real jobs earning real money telling their stories to the young” is a key action to inspire and motivate them.
A Call for Action and Continued Progress
This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of working together—businesses, schools, local authorities, and community organisations—all pulling in the same direction to create a brighter future for Fenland. By continuing to foster volunteering, education, and cross-sector partnerships, Fenland can build a resilient, skilled workforce that is ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
Elsewhere during the day, discussions emphasised how businesses can enhance Fenland’s appeal to both young talent and experienced professionals by adapting their recruitment strategies. Key points included building a strong employer brand by showcasing Fenland’s unique qualities, such as its lower cost of living and strong sense of community. Employers were also encouraged to invest in professional development programmes to retain local talent and provide career growth opportunities.
The importance of offering apprenticeships and work experience to create tailored career pathways for young people was highlighted, along with the need for upskilling and reskilling to ensure the workforce remains adaptable to changing industry demands. Volunteering and community wellbeing were also central themes, as businesses were urged to integrate these into their operations to foster employee satisfaction and retention. Additionally, the event included group discussions that allowed attendees to share insights and connect with others, further strengthening the network of professionals and organisations committed to Fenland’s growth.
The key to Fenland’s success lies in the power of partnerships. By aligning education with industry needs, fostering strong connections between businesses and public sector organisations, and prioritising employee wellbeing, Fenland can create a more resilient, dynamic economy. Moving forward, it is clear that collaboration will remain vital. The discussions at this event laid the foundation for a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future, and we look forward to supporting Fenland’s ongoing journey towards success.
As the event wrapped up, one powerful takeaway emerged: for Fenland to reach its full potential, a blend of sustained dedication, strategic partnerships, and a long-term vision is imperative. These collective efforts will lay the foundation for a thriving future where both today’s and tomorrow’s generations can build successful, fulfilling lives within a dynamic and resilient community. The conversations ignited at the Fenland Networking Breakfast reinforced that tackling the region’s challenges requires a unified, forward-thinking approach—one that drives lasting impact and empowers Fenland to flourish in the years to come.
