PURE: helping disadvantaged residents overcome barriers to entering work

The PURE (Placing Vulnerable Urban Residents into Employment) service seeks to address the deep-rooted barriers that can prevent citizens entering the path to employment. Tailored, wrap-around support for identified individuals, helps provide confidence and stability to thrive and enter learning, training or a job. It also helps build a stronger, more resilient labour market and unlock the talents of all. A key goal of the council is to reduce economic inactivity and unemployment given the negative impacts can lead to social isolation for individuals, reduce well-being, encourage long-term welfare dependency, and increase pressure on public services.  

The Pure service is managed by Birmingham City Council, delivered by 6 specialist community partners. It has been previously funded from the European Social Fund and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with this year forming part of the integrated settlement, with funding devolved from the government to the West Midlands Combined Authority, and with this further devolved to Birmingham City Council to be able to fund local services such as PURE. 

Now moving into its fourth phase, the results of the service have seen over 6,000 individuals supported since 2019, leading to increased employment, stronger communities, and reduced inequalities. For the financial year 2025 to 2026, 600 residents are expected to be helped.   

The Pure service supports inclusive growth - enabling all residents to benefit from the economic growth of the city and its opportunities. The work of the service enhances employer confidence in inclusive hiring, fosters community partnerships across the city, and ensures that opportunities are accessible where they are needed most.