Highland BlindCraft, the Inverness-based organisation that creates custom beds, mattresses & headboards, has been shortlisted in the Future of Work Award category, which recognises businesses that are taking a proactive approach to building a skilled and diverse workforce.
The category looks at how organisations recruit, retain and develop their people, while demonstrating that diversity and inclusion are embedded within their culture and contribute to wider business performance.
Inverness Chamber nominated the social enterprise in recognition of its longstanding commitment to inclusion, skills development and creating meaningful opportunities for people facing barriers to employment, which has been central to the organisation since its foundation in 1881.
Today, more than 80% of Highland BlindCraft’s 30-strong workforce identify as disabled or require additional support. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to employment and development, the organisation adapts training, workplace practices and support around individual needs, helping employees build skills, confidence and opportunities for progression.
This approach is reflected in the experiences of employees who have developed their careers within the organisation, as well as through Highland BlindCraft’s work with local employability partners like Work.Life.Highland to create pathways into employment.
The organisation’s inclusive approach also extends beyond its workforce to support people living with sight loss across the Highlands and Western Isles. Since April 2025, Highland BlindCraft’s Sensory Services team has completed 111 home visits, with an additional 125 people seen in its centres. This has reduced waiting times for low-vision equipment, including magnifiers, screen readers and assistive technology, from up to 2 years to 3-6 months. By helping people remain independent, the organisation improves quality of life while reducing pressure on families, carers and public services.
Eilidh Alexander, Head of Membership for Inverness Chamber of Commerce said, “We are over the moon to see Highland BlindCraft shortlisted in the Future of Work category at the British Chamber Business Awards. Our members are doing amazing, innovative things, which made nominating just one member per category a real challenge.
“The work that Highland BlindCraft is doing in our region to support both its workforce and those living in our community is truly inspiring and deserves to be recognised not just locally, but on the national stage. To be shortlisted is a huge achievement, and it shines a light on the Highlands as a great place to live, work and do business.”
Deirdre Aitken, CEO of Highland BlindCraft said, “We are incredibly honoured to be shortlisted for the Future of Work Award. Creating an inclusive workplace and opportunities for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment has always been at the heart of Highland BlindCraft, so to have that work recognised on a UK-wide stage means a great deal to us and to our staff.
“It comes at what is a challenging time for Highland BlindCraft and businesses throughout the UK, which makes this recognition even more meaningful. Being shortlisted gives us an opportunity to introduce Highland BlindCraft to a much wider audience and, hopefully, encourage more people and businesses to support us so we can continue providing these opportunities for many years to come.
“We’re delighted simply to be considered alongside so many fantastic organisations and wish all of those shortlisted the very best of luck. We’d also like to thank Inverness Chamber of Commerce for nominating us and for their continued support throughout.”
The BCC Chamber Business Awards celebrate businesses across the UK that are making a positive contribution through their work, with categories covering areas including growth, innovation, sustainability, international trade and the future of work. The awards bring together businesses nominated through the UK Chamber Network, with shortlisted organisations progressing to the national stage.
The winners will be announced at the British Chambers Awards Gala Dinner in London on Wednesday 14th October.