AFG Receives Second Princess Royal Training Award 

Alternative Futures Group has received the Princess Royal Training Award once again for our Welcome Induction Programme delivered by our Learning and Development Team. 

The award, granted by HRH The Princess Royal, celebrates organisations that show real commitment to learning and development. Our induction programme is one of only 57 recognised across the whole of the United Kingdom in 2025 and is fully accredited for Continued Professional Development, the programme ensures new colleagues receive a consistent, inclusive and engaging introduction to the organisation. 

Our digital first approach helps every new colleague feel included and supported from day one. The programme offers clear guidance, interactive learning and accessible tools that create a warm and engaging introduction to life at AFG. More than 700 colleagues have now completed it, giving it an incredible 4.9 out of 5 rating. 

Bethany Rowlands, who recently joined AFG as a Marketing Lead for Mental Health, shared her experience:  

“AFG’s induction programme has been the best I’ve taken part in at any organisation. The mix of interactive learning, clear guidance and genuinely welcoming support helped me understand not just my role, but how AFG works as a whole. I came away feeling fully prepared, connected and ready to make a difference.”

Our achievement places us alongside leading UK employers such as Costa Coffee, Nationwide and Domino’s, who have also been recognised for their commitment to world-class training. Of the 414 awards granted to date, only around 10% have gone to charities, making this recognition particularly significant.   

Accepting the award on behalf of AFG at a London ceremony were Paul Taylor, Head of Learning and Organisational Development; Keren Jamieson, Learning and Organisational Development Manager; and Damian McHugh, Operational Training Manager.

Paul Taylor, Head of Learning and Organisational Development, said: 

“It is an honour for our Welcome Induction Programme to be recognised in these prestigious awards. Our induction creates a consistent, values-driven experience that fosters belonging and confidence from day one that is designed to feature active participation, feedback and personalised learning pathways.  

“This external validation of our learning and development strategy reinforces our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that empower every new team member to thrive so they can make a lasting positive difference to the lives of those we support.” 

Kirstie Donnelly MBE, Chief Executive of City & Guilds, said:  

“This year’s recipients have presented innovative approaches to challenges within their organisations which are highly representative of wider challenges within UK business and society, tackling problems including skills gaps and attracting quality applicants.” 

This award comes soon after achieving our second Great Place To Work® accreditation where 85% of colleagues expressed pride in their achievements. Together, these achievements show how much we value our people and how committed we are to helping every colleague thrive. 

We are incredibly proud of this recognition and excited to continue building a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone who joins AFG. 

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