♻️ From Scrap to Success: Building Brighter Futures Together
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What happens when young people are seen, heard, and believed in?
At Genuine Futures, we believe that one visit, one conversation, and one experience can change the direction of a young person’s life — especially for those who’ve been disenfranchised by the education system and told they have nothing to offer. That belief came to life during our recent visit to EMR (European Metal Recycling) at Liverpool Docks, where a group of our young people were welcomed behind the scenes of one of the UK’s most advanced recycling operations.
What We Saw at EMR Liverpool Docks
EMR isn’t just a metal recycling company — it’s a global leader in sustainability and circular economy innovation, with more than 60 sites across the UK and operations worldwide.
At their Liverpool Docks site, our group saw everything from towering piles of processed metal ready for export to cutting-edge machinery separating materials for reuse. It was industrial, impressive, and — most importantly — eye-opening for the young people who came with us.
A Warm Welcome from Barry Flanagan and Andrew Wright
We were greeted by Barry Flanagan and Andrew Wright, two senior members of the EMR Social Value team, whose warmth, honesty, and energy set the tone for the entire day.
Their presentation wasn’t a lecture. It was a conversation — one that covered:
EMR’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions through large-scale recycling their investment in robotics, battery recovery, and rare-earth magnet technology the wide range of career pathways available at EMR from entry-level yard roles to engineering, compliance, and logistics and the importance of community partnerships especially those that support young people who’ve been left behind it was real, relatable, and exactly what our young people needed to hear.
School Skips and Education Engagement
One highlight of the visit was learning about EMR’s school skip programme, where schools are encouraged to collect recyclable materials through student-led drives. These initiatives:
- Promote environmental awareness
- Teach young people about circular economy principles
- Create hands-on learning opportunities outside the classroom
- For our young people — many of whom have been excluded or disengaged from formal education — this was a clear example of how learning can happen in different, more inclusive ways.
Real Lives, Real Change: Jaxon and Alex’s Stories
The most powerful moments of the day came when two of our young people, Jaxon and Alex, shared their stories — openly, honestly, and bravely.
Jaxon, Age 15
Jaxon had spent much of his life outside mainstream education. Before joining the Boss Your Future Bolton programme, he lacked direction and confidence. Now, he’s focused on starting his own valeting business.
“I used to bounce from job idea to job idea. Now I have a firm vision.”
His mum shared:
“You’ve not only given him hope but also me and his dad. I can already see a big change in Jaxon — his confidence and independence have grown so much in such a short space of time.”
Alex, Age 15
Alex had also been failed by the education system. She felt excluded and voiceless — until she joined Genuine Futures.
“It’s not just about work. They actually care. I feel like I belong somewhere now.”
Their stories didn’t just touch our team. They moved the EMR Social Value team too — and reminded everyone in the room why this work matters.
Words from Our Leadership
Sam Smith, Founder of Genuine Futures, said:
“This is exactly what Genuine Futures is about. Too many young people feel they don’t belong anywhere. Visits like this prove that when they’re seen, heard, and believed in, everything changes.”
Mike Alleyne, Director of Genuine Futures, added:
“We’ll stand beside young people who’ve been overlooked. Working with partners like EMR shows what’s possible when industry and community come together.”
Lessons We Took Away
Recycling Is High-Tech and High-Impact
EMR is more than a scrapyard — it’s a centre of innovation, automation, and sustainable industry.
Green Careers Are Accessible
Whether through apprenticeships, technical roles, or business ownership, there are genuine opportunities for young people without traditional qualifications.
Disenfranchised Doesn’t Mean Disengaged
Given the chance, young people who’ve been pushed aside by education or society can become some of the most committed, creative, and capable individuals in the room.
Partnerships Create Pathways
When industry partners like EMR step up, we can collectively build new futures for those who’ve been left behind.
A Relationship That’s Just Beginning
We’re proud to share that EMR has invited us back — a clear sign that they see value not just in recycling materials, but in investing in people.
We’re already exploring:
- Work experience placements and site visits
- Collaborative education sessions
- Opportunities for young people to get involved in community and environmental projects
- Longer-term partnerships focused on employment and entrepreneurship pathways
- This isn’t tokenism — it’s real, mutual commitment.
Thank You, EMR
To Barry, Andrew, and the EMR Social Value team at Liverpool Docks — thank you for your time, your openness, and your belief in what we do. Thank you for treating our young people with dignity, respect, and encouragement and thank you for showing them that there is, indeed, a future worth fighting for.
Final Thoughts
At Genuine Futures, we often say: “They gave up on me. I didn’t.” For so many of the young people we support, that’s not just a quote it’s their lived reality.
Now more than ever, we need to support young people especially those who’ve been let down by schools, services, or society. We need to create spaces where they’re seen, heard, and believed in. Our visit to EMR was proof that when industry meets inclusion, futures are reclaimed — not just recycled.
Interested in working with us?
If you’re a business, school, or community organisation that wants to help us build brighter futures for young people — get in touch.
Written by the Genuine Futures Team
www.genuinefutures.co.uk
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