Helping people into work
For Paul Cadman, employment is about more than a pay packet. A good job builds confidence, pays the bills and changes lives. So, across the West Midlands, Paul backs practical ways to help people find work, keep it and grow in it.
Second highest
jobless rate of any UK region (ONS)
Why employment matters in the West Midlands
According to the Office for National Statistics, the West Midlands had the second-highest jobless rate of any UK region from May to July 2026, behind only London. Behind that figure are people who want to work but face barriers, such as low confidence, few qualifications or a lack of contacts.
2nd
highest jobless rate of the UK regions, after London (ONS, May to July 2026)
Paul Cadman and the value of lived experience
Paul knows how it feels to start with the odds against you. He left school unable to read or write, so he understands why second chances matter. That is why he focuses on practical support that leads to lasting work, rather than quick fixes.
Profit for purpose: how Paul funds employment support
Starting Point Recruitment, part of the Group that Paul Cadman leads, gives a portion of its profits to employment support projects. In other words, everyday recruitment helps to pay for support for the people who need it most.
The model also shows other firms that commercial success and social impact can go hand in hand. For this reason, Paul often uses it as an example when he talks to business leaders about building a business with purpose.
Employers hire
First, firms recruit through Starting Point Recruitment.
Placements earn fees
Then each placement brings in a fee for the firm.
Profit funds support
As a result, part of the profit goes to employment projects.
People find work
In turn, more people get the help they need to start work.
Employment partners Paul Cadman has worked with
Paul Cadman works with firms, universities and charities that share his focus on lasting employment. As a result, these groups have been at the heart of his employment and skills work.
Starting Point Recruitment
Recruitment across the West Midlands for over 20 years, from temporary roles to permanent posts. Part of its profit also supports local job projects. Visit Starting Point Recruitment to find out more.
Sport 4 Life UK
A Birmingham charity that helps young people aged 11 to 29 into learning, training and work through sport and mentoring. Paul was a business ambassador for the charity from 2022. When he took on the role, he urged firms to offer skills and practical help, not only money.
University College Birmingham
Paul sits on the university’s Strategic Employment Board, which helps keep courses in step with what employers need. You can also visit University College Birmingham.
Birmingham Youth Sports Academy
Paul chairs this Birmingham charity, which uses sport and mentoring to help young people towards training, apprenticeships and jobs. You can also visit BYSA to see its work.
Employers and funders: get in touch
If you want to create jobs, fund training or partner on employment support, then Paul would like to hear from you.