Our Mission
EMPLOYMENT THROUGH COMMUNITY SUPPORT
At Mandalay Wellbeing CIC, we believe that employment is more than just a job – it’s a pathway to dignity, stability, and personal growth. Our “Win or Lose, Have Shiny Shoes” initiative is designed to empower those furthest from employment by instilling the skills, confidence, and work ethic needed to secure meaningful work and transform lives.
Why This Matters
Across the UK, countless individuals struggle to break into employment:
946,000 young people (16-24)are not in education, employment, or training.
286,000 people have been unemployed for over a year.
354,000 individuals are homeless in England.
These numbers reflect the urgent need for innovative, community-driven solutions that provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and direct access to opportunities.
Our Approach
Founded by Trevor Saunders BEM, Mandalay Wellbeing CIC has been supporting individuals with practical solutions since 2017. Inspired by Trevor’s own experience as a Boot Boy cleaning professional footballers’ shoes in his youth, this project is rooted in the belief that small steps – like shining a pair of shoes – can lead to lasting change
Through shoe shining, we cultivate discipline, professional presentation, and direct employer engagement – helping participants take the next step toward long-term employment.
How it Works
Training & Tools – Participants receive everything they need to provide high-quality shoe shines.
Workplace Readiness – Each individual develops essential skills, including customer service, time management, and professional conduct.
Mentorship & Guidance – Retired professionals volunteer as mentors, offering career advice and personal encouragement.
Interview Preparation – Once an opportunity arises, we provide interview clothing, haircuts, and coaching to ensure confidence and success.
Community Engagement & Job Matching
Every shoe shine costs just £1 supporting the sustainability of the project.
Customers receive a card with details about the shoe shiner and the type of work they’re seeking.
When a customer identifies a suitable job, they contact us – we follow up to arrange potential interviews, building bridges to employment.