Laura Fontaine

"I offer support and psychological guidance to African and Caribbean people in London with mental health problems. I'm helping develop their skills and confidence so that they can enter or re-enter employment or training.

"I've worked here for five years. It's expanded my skills and allowed me to develop personally and professionally. I feel supported and motivated by the staff here - so I always give my best rather than just 'get by'.

"There's trust and respect for staff throughout the company. Individual success is encouraged, and excellence is recognised.

That's why positive, successful people come to work here."

Debbie Whewell

"I've been a neighbourhood officer for 8 years. I enjoy it. Every day's a new challenge. When I walk through the door in the morning, I don't know if I'm going to be a counsellor, social worker, police officer or estate agent! I love the variety, but most of all, if I end the day having changed one person's life for the better, it's worth it.

"I haven't always been a neighbourhood officer. When I started here 13 years ago, I was a job-share finance assistant. Then I took a role as a customer services officer. After a while, I wanted to move forward in my career - so I applied to become a neighbourhood officer.

"That's what's great about working here: the opportunities to improve and develop your skills. You're always encouraged to further your career. If you've got the right attitude - and are passionate about your development - you really can go far!"

Neil Ward

"I'm a housing officer with Castle Rock Edinvar (part of Places for People in Scotland). Our aim is to create places of choice; places where people want to live and choose to stay. I do lots of things in my role, from interviewing housing applicants to managing tenancies.

"Work here and you'll notice that it's an innovative company where staff are valued and given the chance to develop. You'll also get a sense of putting something back into society. Remember: being able to make a difference in life is tremendously satisfying…being able to do that every day is inspiring!"