Seetec is proud to announce that we have been shortlisted in three categories at the 2025 ERSA Conference and Employability Awards. This recognition celebrates the outstanding work of our colleagues and reflects our core values: being customer-focused and committed to unlocking the potential of the people and communities we serve.
As one of the UK’s leading employability events, the ERSA Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and measurable impact in helping people into sustainable work. Now in its 13th year and sponsored by Elevate Employment Services, the programme honours individuals, teams, and organisations transforming lives through high-quality employment support.
The winners will be announced on 25 November 2025 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.
Celebrating Exceptional Frontline Advisors
We are delighted that two Seetec colleagues — Cameron Smith and Rhys Barker — have been named finalists for the Frontline Advisor Award. Their commitment, empathy, and creativity exemplify Seetec’s mission to deliver meaningful, people-centred support.
Cameron Smith – Employment Advisor, Plymouth
Cameron’s nomination highlights the power of lived experience combined with professional skill. His journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming one of Plymouth’s strongest advisers gives him a unique ability to build trust quickly and authentically.
Customers describe Cameron as someone who listens deeply, supports without judgement, and helps them believe change is possible. His results are as impressive as his impact: he leads locally for first earnings and job starts, and colleagues consistently praise his compassion, resilience, and willingness to go the extra mile.
Rhys Barker – Youth Wellbeing Coach, Worcester
Rhys empowers young people to recognise their strengths and build confidence through compassionate, creative activities, from wellbeing walks to mindful colouring. His approach creates a safe, supportive environment where young people feel heard, understood, and motivated.
Of the 277 young people he has supported:
- 99% said they felt genuinely listened to
- 97% reported meaningful progress towards their goals
AI in Action: Empowering Advisers and Participants
Seetec, in partnership with Earlybird, has been shortlisted in the Introducing AI category, recognising our innovative approach to using AI to enhance, not replace, human connection.
We piloted Earlybird’s responsible AI tool across seven South West sites, freeing advisers to spend more time delivering personalised support. Advisers report the technology helps them be more present and responsive, while participants feel heard and understood.
This shortlisting reflects our broader commitment to the responsible, efficient, and inclusive use of AI across the Seetec Group, keeping customer needs central and preserving conversations that truly change lives. Following the pilot’s success, Earlybird AI is being rolled out across all 21 Restart sites, saving over 4,500 adviser hours each month and allowing advisers to focus on what matters most: supporting people to realise their potential, one conversation at a time.
Our AI partnership with Earlybird
Find out more about our AI partnership with Earlybird: Pioneering the future of employment support.
Proud Sponsors of the Outstanding Participant Award
We are honoured to sponsor the Outstanding Participant Award, celebrating individuals who have shown exceptional courage, resilience, and personal growth on their journey towards employment. As finalists, sponsors, and proud contributors to the employability sector, we look forward to joining peers and partners at the ERSA Awards. Every day, we are inspired by the dedication of our teams and by the strength of the people we support to overcome barriers, unlock potential, and build brighter futures.
