Transforming PR through diversity

Hanover Communications and Hanson Search have launched UpSkill with the independent charity UpRising. The programme helps ambitious young adults break into the communications industry. It is a tailor-made programme designed to support aspiring individuals interested in a career in PR and/or Public Affairs and will equip them with essential skills to improve their employment prospects in the sector, specifically creating a strong CV, writing skills, interview techniques and how to network.

Alice Weightman founder and MD of Hanson Search: If there is one business sector that should reflect Britain’s society, then the communications industry is surely it and as it stands it doesn’t. Our vision is that we work in an industry that doesn’t have to try and find diversity, it just comes naturally. We hope this programme will become an important part of championing the need for a long term cultural change across sectors.

The programme will include four interactive workshops delivered by Hanover and Hanson Search. Hanson Search hosted the official launch party at their offices on Thursday 27th February 2014.

UpSkill – supported by the industry body the PRCA – also aims to attract ambitious individuals to PR and Public Affairs who are currently under-represented within the sector. On completion of the programme in the summer the PRCA will offer the UpSkill students free membership, access to online training and exclusive networking events. Together with Hanover Communications and Hanson Search they will work with the UpSkill graduates to secure internships or apprenticeships in a communications agency.

Charles Lewington, founder and MD of Hanover Communications: The world of corporate PR and public affairs consultancy is grey, graduate and too middle class. UpRising is an inspirational organisation dedicated to opening doors for talented and passionate young campaigners who might not otherwise make it into a PR job or even onto an internship interview shortlist. Hanover and Hanson Search consultants will be working with UpRising to provide job application training, mock interview support as well as the networking and written skills they need but without diluting our commitment to exacting quality standards in a highly competitive industry.

About UpRising

UpRising is a UK-wide youth leadership development organisation. Their mission is to open pathways to power and opportunities for a diverse range of talented young people. They equip them with the knowledge, networks, skills, and confidence to reach their potential and transform their communities for the better. www.uprising.org.uk

About Hanover

Hanover is an independent consulting firm that specialises in advising global brands, businesses and organisations on reputation, communications and public affairs. Hanover create and deliver integrated programmes that are designed to ensure organisations bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. www.hanovercomms.com