Case studies
Anchors are changing real lives and delivering real impact for our city. Listen to their stories.
Inclusive Workplaces
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 actively recruiting prison leavers, Thames Water is not only supporting reintegration and rehabilitation but also addressing vital skills shortages across the 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 a unique collaboration between Anchor members Waltham Forest College and the NHS, Nikita gained the confidence, skills, and opportunity to step into the world of work on her own terms.
Meet Matt, a micro business owner whose breakthrough contract with the University of London has paved the way for fresh ideas, expanded networks, and cutting-edge innovation in medical science. In this case study, discover how a small business became a key player in a major research initiativethanks to inclusive procurement from one of London’s Anchor Institutions.
Going Underground: Unlocking SME Opportunities with Transport for London
Supporting young people
Research funded by the London Research and Policy Partnership will help inform mentoring training and help businesses understand what young people want from mentoring opportunities.
Climate leadership
Upgrading a 100+ years old fire station with carbon saving technology, procuring a London-based SME to do the work and creating apprenticeship opportunities.
Place-based
Think tank British Futures is helping the Greater London Authority and 11 local councils to improve local services and social integration for the benefit 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 meaningful work through the NHS. This case study highlights how the initiative supports refugees into employment, bridging 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 valuable work experience for neurodivergent Londoners like Dennis.
Global Talent, Local Impact: NHS Supporting Refugees into Work
What does it mean for a small business to secure a big opportunity? In this case study, hear from SW Bruce, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), as they share their experience of joining the Metropolitan Police Services 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’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. Watch how inclusive procurement is helping local businesses thrive.
Mentors like Charles from the Metropolitan Police Service have been doing training to give the best possible support to young people.
Upgrading a 100+ years old fire station with carbon saving technology, procuring a London-based SME to do the work and creating apprenticeship opportunities.
Building Futures: Thames Water and the 10,000 Black Interns Experience
Since 2021, Thames Water has partnered with 10,000 Black Interns, creating paid internship opportunities for young Black professionals from diverse social and economic backgrounds. Listen to Temitope’s story.
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 (TfL) is opening up access to its supply chain for small and medium-sized businesses like Delatim Ltd. By awarding contracts that support local enterprise, TfL is creating new pathways for innovation, inclusion, and growth beneath the streets of the capital. Hear directly from the team at Delatim Ltd as they share how this opportunity is helping them scale up, collaborate, and contribute to London’s essential infrastructure.
University of London explains the benefits of creating apprenticeship opportunities and transferring the apprenticeship levy to businesses to create apprenticeships in London.
The Church of England has pledged to be net zero by 2030.
Event highlights
Video recaps of LAIN’s recent conferences and events - hear how attendees have been inspired.
More than 100 small businesses came to the Small and Diverse Suppliers Engagement Event hosted by London Anchor Institutions’ Network (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.
On 8 February 2024, members of the London Anchor Institutions' Network (LAIN) gathered at City Hall to mark a year of impact and collaboration. From inclusive employment and green innovation to community partnerships and procurement reform, the event celebrated the tangible progress made across London and laid the groundwork for bold action in the year ahead. 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 capital for all.
Hear what London’s local businesses learned at LAIN’s Meet the Buyer Event held at RSA House on 29 June 2023 when London’s Anchor Institutions met with them to discuss local procurement opportunities.