About Aspire

Aspire are a national spinal injury charity providing practical solutions for people living with spinal cord injuries.

Every eight hours someone is paralysed by a spinal cord injury; it can happen to anyone, at any time, and no one is prepared for how it will change their life. Aspire exists because there is currently no cure.

Founded in 1982 around the kitchen table of Shannie Ross’ home in Hampstead, north west London, Aspire has been helping people with spinal injury for more than 25 years.

Through its projects and programmes, Aspire offers practical support to the 40,000 people currently living with a spinal cord injury in the UK, so they can lead fulfilled and independent lives.

Services include access to grants, housing, advice and assistive technology.

Today, the charity is based in Stanmore and led by Chief Executive Brian Carlin, who joined in 2001.

What is it like to work for Aspire

Leadership

89% of staff agreed:

The leader of this organisation runs this organisation based on sound moral principles

Brian has an open door policy and regularly uses the leisure facilities and staff areas, engaging with employees. He uses the staff area to make coffee and have lunch, and always finds the time to stop and make conversation with other staff using the area. He also runs a weekly spinning class for staff.

89% of staff agreed:

The leader of this organisation runs this organisation based on sound moral principles

Wellbeing

81% of staff disagreed:

I am under too much pressure at work to perform well

Aspire supports workers where they can with flexible working opportunities and open discussion about the reduction of hours and adjustments to routines/hours.

81% of staff disagreed:

I am under too much pressure at work to perform well

Giving Something Back

95% of staff agreed:

My organisation encourages charitable activities

Employers that have more than five years of service with the charity can apply for two paid days off to volunteer for another charity or community organisation.

95% of staff agreed:

My organisation encourages charitable activities

Learn more about the 8 factors of workplace engagement here

Benefits:

Gym

Companies offering either free gym/ sports facilities or offering subsidised gym membership for all employees
Maternity

At least 10 weeks’ full pay or generous alternative
Development

Non work related training supported