At this point Levi was unemployed, isolated, and unsure how to rebuild his life.
Through a referral from the Jobcentre, Levi discovered the Road to Logistics employability programme delivered in partnership with Sysco, designed specifically to support the recruitment needs of Sysco’s new Hemel Hempstead distribution centre while creating opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.
Building industry‑ready skills through, fully funded accredited logistics training
Levi enrolled onto the programme and quickly demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment. During the course he completed training in:
- Introduction to logistics and warehousing
- Health and safety
- Warehouse operations
- Manual handling
- Forklift truck theory and practical training (RTITB accredited)
- Employability skills including CV writing, interview preparation and workplace behaviours
- Mental health awareness
The programme also provided one-to-one mentoring from the first day of training through to 12 months after employment, ensuring Levi had the support needed to succeed both during training and once in work.
Following completion of the programme, Levi attended a dedicated Sysco assessment centre, where Road to Logistics supported learners during the process to ensure they felt confident and prepared.
Levi successfully secured a role at Sysco’s Hemel Hempstead distribution centre, where he now works on the night shift operating a forklift truck, conducting stock checks, and loading vehicles.
The Impact: confidence, stability and a future in logistics
The impact of this opportunity has been transformational.
Levi describes how the programme and his role at Sysco have allowed him to rebuild his life, develop a new social network, and gain confidence and independence. Through stable employment he has been able to begin saving money, clear debt, and is working towards moving out of the hostel and securing his own accommodation.
Importantly, Levi also recognises the purpose of the work he now does. Sysco supplies food to organisations including hostels and care homes — meaning Levi now contributes to supporting the same types of services that helped him during his most difficult period.
Levi summarises the impact simply:
“This job means everything to me. It has helped me turn my life around and finally look forward to my future.”
A proven model for inclusive recruitment in logistics
Levi’s journey demonstrates the power of targeted training, employer partnership, and inclusive recruitment practices to unlock potential in individuals who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional hiring processes.