Case studies
Anchor institutions are changing lives and delivering real impact for our city. Listen to their stories.
Inclusive employment
Opening Doors: Thames Water Prison Leavers Recruitment Programme
In this compelling case study, explore how Thames Water is creating pathways to employment for individuals with lived experience of the justice system.
By recruiting prison leavers, Thames Water is not only supporting reintegration and rehabilitation but also addressing skills shortages in its workforce.
Working for Independence: Nikita’s Journey Into Employment
Meet Nikita, a determined 23-year-old with additional learning needs, who shares how securing her first job has transformed her life.
With support from Project SEARCH, and collaboration between LAIN members Waltham Forest College and the NHS, Nikita gained the confidence, skills, and opportunity to step into the world of work.
Meet Matt, a micro business owner whose breakthrough contract with the University of London has paved the way for fresh ideas.
In this case study, discover how a small business became a key player in a major research initiative thanks to inclusive procurement from one of London’s Anchor Institutions.
Going Underground: Unlocking Business Opportunities with Transport for London
Supporting young Londoners
Climate leadership
From Campus to Climate: How New City College Is Helping to Create a More Sustainable London
In support of London’s mission to become a net-zero city, New City College shares its bold ambitions to become one of the capital’s leading greener colleges.
The college is implementing a comprehensive plan to decarbonise its estates and embed sustainability into learning, operations and leadership.
Place-based
Making London a Better Place for Refugees: Working Together for Inclusion and Impact
Learn how British Future, in partnership with the Greater London Authority and 11 local councils, is helping to reshape services and strengthen community ties for refugees across the capital.
Through policy insights, collaboration, and community engagement, the project is building more welcoming neighbourhoods, improving access to local services, and supporting the social integration of London-based refugees.
Pathways into work for neurodivergent Londoners with Transport for London
Meet Hamidu and Stephen, two of many individuals who have found new pathways into work through the NHS.
This case study highlights work in West London to support refugees into employment, connecting talent with opportunity, and helping rebuild futures through work that matters.
Winning Work with the Met: Investing in Local, Diverse Businesses
Transport for London's Steps into Work programme provides meaningful experience of the world of work for neurodivergent Londoners.
In this inspiring case study, we follow Dennis on his journey.
Global Talent, Local Impact: NHS Supporting Refugees into Work
What does it mean for a small business to secure a big contract? In this case study, hear from SW Bruce, as they share their experience of joining the Metropolitan Police Service’s procurement framework.
Discover the practical benefits, from increased visibility and stable workstreams to building lasting partnerships across the supply chain.
In this case study, we spotlight Coniston Ltd just one of the many small and diverse businesses benefitting from the Met Police Service’s commitment to buying locally and inclusively.
From contracts to community growth, this is a story of public spending with purpose driving economic opportunity and representation in London’s supply chains.
Future-Proofing the Past: London Fire Brigade’s Carbon Saving Retrofit
Discover how the London Fire Brigade is bringing a 100-year-old fire station into the future through sustainable innovation.
This case study highlights a major retrofit project that not only installs carbon-saving technologies but also champions local procurement and skills development through new apprenticeship opportunities.
Building Futures: Thames Water and the 10,000 Black Interns Experience
Since 2021, Thames Water has proudly partnered with the 10,000 Black Interns programme, creating paid internships for young Black professionals from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Hear from Temitope about her experience of the programme.
Opening Doors: SME Procurement with the Met Police
Procurement
Micro Business Boosts Medical Science: A Big Win with the University of London
In this case study, discover how Transport for London is opening up its supply chain for small and medium-sized businesses like Delatim Ltd.
By awarding contracts that support local enterprise, Transport for London is creating opportunities for growth beneath the streets of the capital.
Green Churches Make Warmer Congregations: The Church of England’s Net Zero Journey
As part of its bold pledge to become net zero by 2030, the Church of England is turning faith into climate action.
This case study explores how the church is embracing energy-saving retrofits, sustainable design, and eco-conscious practices, making sacred spaces greener and warmer for its communities.
Why Young People Want Mentors: Listening, Learning, Leading
Backed by research from the London Research and Policy Partnership, this video explores the insights and aspirations of young Londoners and what employers and mentoring programmes can do to truly meet their needs.
From trust and relatability to long-term support, this research is helping shape better mentoring experiences and smarter training for those who want to make a real difference.
Mentoring at the Met: Supporting Young People, Shaping Stronger Communities
Meet Charles, one of many dedicated volunteer mentors from the Metropolitan Police Service who have undergone specialist training to better support young people across London.
Through mentoring, officers are building trusted relationships, offering guidance, and helping young Londoners navigate challenges and opportunities alike.
Empowering Talent with Apprenticeships: University of London Explains the Benefits
In this case study, the University of London shares how it’s using the apprenticeship levy to spark opportunity and support London’s workforce of tomorrow.
By creating apprenticeship roles and transferring unspent levy funds to local businesses, the university is nurturing skills and building stronger career pathways across the capital.
Event highlights - video
Small and Diverse Suppliers Event: May 2025
More than 100 small businesses came to the Small and Diverse Suppliers Engagement Event hosted by LAIN and MSDUK at the University of East London to learn about opportunities to supply goods and services to major organisations across the city, supported by Mayor of London.
LAIN Conference: February 2024
Event highlights - images
LAIN Conference: February 2024
In February 2024, members of LAIN gathered at City Hall to mark another year of impact and collaboration. This highlights video captures key moments from the day: inspiring speakers, cross-sector connections, and a shared commitment to building a fairer, greener, more prosperous city for all.
LAIN Meet the Buyer Event: June 2023
LAIN Meet the Buyer Business Event: June 2023
Hear what London’s local businesses learned at LAIN’s Meet the Buyer Event held at RSA House in June 2023.
LAIN Conference: January 2023
Small and Diverse Suppliers Event: May 2025
Chief Officers Meeting: November 2024
LAIN Comms Champions Meeting: June 2024