Occupational safety jobs in Brierley HillCreate job alerts

Mechanical Fitter Salary: £33.23 p/h (umbrella rate) Hours: 40 hours per weekContract: 14 weeks (mid July) Shifts: 6:00am-2:30pmLocation: Dudley About the Role: We’re looking for a skilled Mechanical Fitter to carry out stripping, overhauling and rebuilding trams. You will be part of a dedicated workshop team responsible for stripping down tram components, inspecting and repairing mechanical systems, and rebuilding vehicles to a high safety and performance standard.What You’ll Be Doing: • Mechanical fitter work carried out on trams (light rail, Urbos 3):, • Interior strip down of components including removing seats, seat covers, linings, grab poles, windows, doors, and rubber seals., • Bogie & underframe work, disconnection and lifting of bogies, removing pipework and associated mechanical components, • Assist welders as needed (cleaning paint, prep work), • Mechanical Modifications including grinding, cutting off bobtails, riveting, using bobtail guns, hydraulic tools, standard hand tools., • Fitting, refitting, rebuilding interior and mechanical components, • Measuring and working to diagrams when required, • Strong mechanical fitter background essential, • Must be comfortable in a refurbishment/modification environment, • Experience with grinding, hand tools, mechanical strip & rebuild About Ford & Stanley group Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas - recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom. • Ford & Stanley TalentWise - Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary., • Ford & Stanley Recruitment - Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract., • Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe. Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business.

Are you an experienced HSE manager with a background in FMCG manufacturing? Do you have the ability to drive H&S standards through coaching and mentoring? Do you hold DipNEBOSH or equivalent? MacGregor Black are partnering with a manufacturing business on the search for a H&S Manager. This is a perm role based in West Bromwich. Key Responsibilities: • Take ownership of the H&S function and develop the site to a world class standard., • Own site inspections, risk assessments, training and to interact with each of the site’s workforces on a regular basis., • Coordinate corporate initiatives in H&S including process safety; lead the contractor safety program; lead the permit to work process; manage accident/incident statistics., • Oversight of the H&S Legal and Corporate compliance programs., • Coordination of internal and external audits and maintain ISO accreditations (ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ISO 50001). What We're Looking For: • NEBOSH Diploma in Occupational Safety & Health (or equivalent), • Strong knowledge and experience in a technical industry environment, preferably in an engineering or food or drink industry., • Familiar with UK health, safety and environmental laws and regulations., • Proven ability to drive practical and indirect cultural change in a continuous improvement environment., • Member of professional body with appropriate professional qualification (e. g IOSH, CMIOSH advantageous)., • Can develop action plans, drive, and support large programs. Salary – 60K + package Please contact Rob Blackburn today for further information.

Mechanical Fitter Salary: £33.23 p/h (umbrella rate) Hours: 40 hours per week Contract: 14 weeks (mid July) Shifts: 6:00am-2:30pm Location: Dudley About the Role: We’re looking for a skilled Mechanical Fitter to carry out stripping, overhauling and rebuilding trams. You will be part of a dedicated workshop team responsible for stripping down tram components, inspecting and repairing mechanical systems, and rebuilding vehicles to a high safety and performance standard. What You’ll Be Doing: Mechanical fitter work carried out on trams (light rail, Urbos 3): Interior strip down of components including removing seats, seat covers, linings, grab poles, windows, doors, and rubber seals. Bogie & underframe work, disconnection and lifting of bogies, removing pipework and associated mechanical components Assist welders as needed (cleaning paint, prep work) Mechanical Modifications including grinding, cutting off bobtails, riveting, using bobtail guns, hydraulic tools, standard hand tools. Fitting, refitting, rebuilding interior and mechanical components Measuring and working to diagrams when required Collaborating with welders and wider team What You’ll Need: Strong mechanical fitter background essential Must be comfortable in a refurbishment/modification environment Experience with grinding, hand tools, mechanical strip & rebuild Experience working in dusty, dirty, noisy environments Apply today and join a team that keeps the tram network running safely, smoothly, and reliably. About Ford & Stanley group Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group are in the business of people and performance. Our mission is to create one million better workdays through facilitating great recruitment, leadership and occupational mental fitness. We support our clients in their most challenging business areas - recruiting, developing and retaining the best talent from shop floor to boardroom. Ford & Stanley TalentWise - Business specialising in blue collar trade & technical services – permanent and temporary. Ford & Stanley Recruitment - Business specialising in white collar spanning all company functions with specialist verticals within Digital, Rail Engineering, Civils & Infrastructure, General Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Logistics both permanent and contract. Ford & Stanley Executive Search – Business specialising in Executive Search & Executive Interim Solutions in the UK, North America, Middle East and Europe. Ford & Stanley Genius Performance - Performance is always accelerated when good people are coached, inspired, trained and focused in the right way. Ford & Stanley Talent Services Group Ltd is a Disability Confident employer that is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for all opportunity seekers. We shall adhere to such a policy at all times and will review on an on-going basis all aspects of recruitment to avoid unlawful or undesirable discrimination. We will treat everyone equally irrespective sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, age, disability, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief or political beliefs and we place an obligation upon all staff to respect and act in accordance with the policy. Services advertised by Ford & Stanley are that of an employment consultancy business

Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Location: Castle Bromwich Salary: £55,000 per annum Shift Pattern: 4 on 4 off (2 days, 2 nights – 12-hour shifts) We are seeking an experienced Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer to join our dynamic engineering team at our manufacturing facility in Castle Bromwich. This is a hands-on role focused on ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of heavy industrial plant and equipment. You will play a key part in minimising downtime, driving continuous improvement, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance. Key Responsibilities - Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Issue permits to work and conduct thorough risk assessments for all planned and reactive tasks, identifying and mitigating hazards. Implement, monitor, and enforce safe systems of work to ensure consistent compliance and a zero-harm environment. Deliver high-quality multi-skilled engineering support, working independently or collaboratively to support planned preventative maintenance (PPM), reactive repairs, plant upgrades, installation projects, statutory inspections, and utility services. Supervise and coordinate external contractors and service providers to ensure work is completed safely and to standard. Act as a primary point of contact for internal teams, providing technical expertise to resolve plant, equipment, and safety-related issues quickly and effectively. Diagnose faults, repair and restore equipment to ensure safe, reliable operation, maximum availability, and reduced production losses, energy consumption, and waste. Drive root-cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives to eliminate recurring failures. Plan, coordinate, and execute plant improvement and installation projects. Support the development and delivery of planned maintenance schedules, follow up on repairs, document work to audit standards, and communicate with suppliers to chase orders. Qualifications & Experience - Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Proven hands-on experience working with heavy motorised plant, hydraulic systems, steam generation, boiler house operations, and high-pressure fluid systems. Strong multi-skilled background combining mechanical and electrical engineering capabilities. A proactive, safety-first mindset with excellent problem-solving and fault-diagnosis skills. Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced industrial environment, both independently and as part of a team. BTEC (or equivalent qualification) in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering. Benefits - Multi-Skilled Maintenance Engineer Pension - Pay in 3.5% and the company pays 6%. 3x annual salary life assurance 24 days holiday Buy & Sell Holiday Scheme Free parking EAP service Occupational Health Nurse on site every week Free physio on site available every week Sandwich van comes on site every day at 9am Mental Health First Aiders on site 10% discount on gym membership at Gym next door For more information on this role, please contact Andrew Haddon on (phone number removed) or send a copy of your CV to (url removed) For details of other opportunities available within your chosen field please visit our website Ideal background / Previous roles may include: Maintenance Engineer, Shift Engineer, Shift Technician, Reliability Engineer or field service engineer Omega is an employment agency specialising in opportunities at all levels within the Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Automotive, Electronics, Defence, Scientific, Energy & Renewables and Tech sectors

We are looking for an experienced Maintenance Engineer (mechanical biased) to join a company who are a Sealing & Packaging Manufacturer. The main aim of the role is to support the manufacturing operations by ensuring machinery, equipment and facilities are maintained to a high standard and production downtime is minimised. Working Mon-Thur 7am-5pm, 3 day weekend Day to day you'll be tasked with: • Carry out preventive and reactive maintenance on production machinery, • Maintenance of machinery included but not limited to; Material Slitting Machines, Adhesive Laminating Machines, Log Cutting Machines, Atom/JM Presses, Guillotine Presses, Bandsaw/Knife, Fabrication and Assembly Machines., • Diagnose faults and implement repairs to minimise downtime, • Monitor machinery performance and recommend improvements, • Maintain maintenance records and manage spare parts, • Organise and manage external contractors when required, • Ensure compliance with Health & Safety and quality standards Benefits: • 28 days holiday (including public holidays), • Occupational Sick Pay Scheme (after probation), • Training and development opportunities Immediate starts can be available for this role! For more information, please apply

RSR is a public safety & enterprise security recruitment specialist. We assist public safety employers find the right talent. We assist all employers when they want to source public safety and enterprise security skills and experience. Job Title: MARAC Administrator - West Midlands Location: Sandwell (office-based, with travel required) Salary: £25,282.44 per annum Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm) Contract Type: Full-time Reporting to: Referral and Advice Manager About the Role We are seeking a highly organised and proactive MARAC Administrator to support the effective delivery of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC) process across the West Midlands. This is a vital coordination role supporting high-risk victims of domestic abuse. You will act as the central point of contact for MARAC-related activity, ensuring the accurate and timely administration of agendas, minutes, and actions across multiple local authority areas. Working closely with Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs), managers, and multi-agency partners, you will help ensure that critical information is shared effectively and that agreed actions are tracked to improve safety outcomes for victims and their families. This is a non-case-holding role requiring strong administrative, organisational, and communication skills, alongside professionalism, resilience, and attention to detail. Key Responsibilities Lead on the administration and coordination of MARAC processes across multiple areas Accurately record and distribute MARAC agendas, ensuring correct allocation to relevant services Liaise with internal teams and external partners to gather and verify information Manage MARAC minutes, ensuring actions are logged, tracked, and followed up Respond to queries relating to MARAC agendas, cases, and processes Maintain and update tracking systems and records in line with organisational procedures Work closely with IDVAs and managers to ensure timely completion of actions Build effective working relationships with multi-agency partners, including police and local authorities Ensure all administrative tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standardAbout You You will be an experienced administrator with a strong ability to manage complex information and competing priorities. You will be confident working in a fast-paced, multi-agency environment and committed to supporting vulnerable individuals. Essential Requirements Experience working with vulnerable adults and/or children, including safeguarding awareness Strong administrative and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information appropriately Experience working with multiple stakeholders and partner agencies Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team under pressureKnowledge & Understanding Understanding of domestic abuse and its impact on victims and families Awareness of risk assessment, safety planning, and safeguarding practices Knowledge of multi-agency working and information sharing processes Understanding of trauma-informed approachesAdditional Requirements Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle Willingness to travel and occasionally work outside normal office hours Enhanced DBS check required Right to work in the UK This post is open to women only (occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Equality Act 2010)What We Offer 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service 1 wellbeing day per year Option to purchase additional annual leave Mileage allowance for business travel Employer pension contribution (5%) Access to Employee Assistance Programme Clinical supervision support Ongoing training and development opportunities Time off in lieu (TOIL) for additional hours worked Regular staff engagement activities, including away days Due to the high volume of applications we receive, if you do not hear from us within 7 working days, your application has been unsuccessful. If this role is not for you but you do know somebody who would be interested, please feel free to refer them to us! We have a "Refer A Friend" bonus scheme and we will reward you retail vouchers for any referrals who are not already known to us and are successfully placed! Red Snapper Recruitment is a member of the Red Snapper Group. The Red Snapper Group acts as an employment agency (permanent) and as an employment business (temporary) - a free and confidential service to candidates. The Red Snapper Recruitment Group is an equal opportunities employer

Your new company You will be joining a respected specialist domestic abuse support provider operating across the Black Country. The service delivers trauma‑informed, holistic support to individuals and families experiencing domestic abuse, with a strong emphasis on empowerment, safety and recovery. This particular role sits within the Family Court Pathfinder Programme, a national initiative designed to improve how Family Courts respond to cases involving domestic abuse. The programme aims to ensure that victims are heard, protected and fully supported throughout the court process, with the long-term safety and wellbeing of children at its core. Your new role As a Pathfinder IDVA, you will be the primary point of support for victim survivors navigating the Family Court process. You will: Provide specialist, trauma‑informed support to victims and their children throughout every stage of court proceedings. Carry out comprehensive risk assessments using tools such as DASH, Stalking and Honour‑Based Violence frameworks, SOAG and the Respect Toolkit. Help victims understand court procedures, prepare for hearings and attend court safely. Produce high quality written reports for CAFCASS and the Family Court, including Child Impact Reports. Work closely with CAFCASS, safeguarding partners and Family Court teams to ensure accurate information is collected and shared. Deliver guidance, training and expertise to court professionals to improve understanding of domestic abuse dynamics. Provide post‑hearing safety planning and refer families into wider support services as needed. Attend multi‑agency meetings, contribute to safeguarding processes and maintain accurate case management records.This is a rewarding yet challenging role requiring empathy, resilience, excellent communication skills and confidence when working with partner agencies in high pressure environments. What you'll need to succeed You will bring: An IDVA qualification or professional experience within domestic/sexual violence services. (desirable) A Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) in a relevant field. (desirable) Experience supporting vulnerable adults and children, with strong safeguarding knowledge. Ability to manage complex cases involving trauma, mental health, substance misuse, and child contact issues. Strong understanding of domestic abuse indicators, risk assessment, safety planning and the barriers victims face. Knowledge of civil/criminal justice processes, Family Court procedures and relevant safeguarding legislation. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience producing formal reports. Confidence working independently and within multi‑agency environments. A calm, resilient and compassionate approach in emotionally sensitive situations. Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.This role is open to female applicants only, due to an occupational requirement aligned with the nature of the support provided. What you'll get in return You'll be joining a supportive organisation that values staff wellbeing, development and professional growth. Benefits include: A salary ranging between £25,282 - £28861 per annum Mileage allowance Training & development opportunities Employee Assistance Programme Group clinical supervision (BACP‑trained counsellor) 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata), rising with service Additional wellbeing day (pro rata) Annual leave buy‑back scheme Time off in lieu (TOIL) Bi‑annual staff away days 5% employer pension contributionYou'll play a key role in shaping safer outcomes for victims of domestic abuse and their children within the Family Court system. What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)

Occupational Health & Safety Administrator - City of Birmingham page is loaded## Occupational Health & Safety Administrator - City of Birminghamlocations: Merit System: Birminghamtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R0015181**TARGET CLOSE DATE:04/24/2026PAY GR

The Occupational Health and Safety Advisor is responsible for supporting and contributing to the development, implementation and maintenance of KPU’s Occupational Health and Safety Program. Applied knowledge of occupational health and safety regulations, Codes, Acts and legislation with the abilit

A local government entity in Birmingham is seeking an Occupational Health & Safety Administrator to oversee safety and accident prevention programs. The role includes ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations, conducting safety inspections, and managing the Workers' Compensation Program. Candidates

Are you ready to lead and inspire a high-performing Occupational Health and Safety team while driving strategic health and safety initiatives across the organisation?. Occupational Health and Safety function, including H&S managers and specialists, working closely with the Executive and Senior Leade

It will act as a key point of contact for managers and external stakeholders, drive effective safety reporting and compliance, support occupational safety standards and risk assessments, and help maintain ISO 45001 accreditation. Support the development of Southern's health and safety management sys

We recruit all roles in the Health and Safety industry including Health and Safety Advisor, Health and Safety Manager, Health and Safety Director, and HSE, HSEQ, SHEQ, QHSE, EHS positions. Lead on ISO45001 Occupational Health & Safety Management System. We are supporting their search for a dynamic H

This hybrid position will provide health and safety leadership across the organization, ensuring compliance with safety standards and fostering a strong safety culture. A leading railway operator is looking for an Occupational Safety Manager Trainee to join their team in London. Candidates should ha

Occupational Health & Safety Administrator - City of Birmingham page is loaded## Occupational Health & Safety Administrator - City of Birminghamlocations: Merit System: Birminghamtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 2 Days Agojob requisition id: R0015181**TARGET CLOSE DATE:04/24/2026P

Recognised Occupational Therapy degree Valid and up to date HCPC Registration Registered member of RCOT Relevant experience in providing occupational therapy services within a similar setting is preferrablePreviously engaged with people who are neurodivergent and/or experience learnin

Our Occupational Therapists work collaboratively within our schools and children’s homes, this ensures that therapeutic support permeates every aspect of the education, care and support we offer all of our children and young people. Be a qualified Occupational Therapist registered with the HCPC.

Are you looking for an employer who can offer you opportunities for growth and development in your occupational therapy career- All whilst working within a friendly multidisciplinary team in a rewarding education setting? Do you want to have opportunities to participate in research proje

As a Care Assistant at a Barchester care home, you'll help residents enjoy each day by making sure they get the quality care and support they deserve.You'll assist with daily living, providing support and companionship and sharing great moments and memories too.It's a chance to bring your dedicatio

As a Maintenance Assistant at a Barchester care home, you'll help to create the safe and attractive surroundings that enable us to give our residents the quality care and support they deserve.It's important that our homes give the right first impression and that every area is always well-maintained.

As a Senior Care Assistant at a Barchester care home, you'll look after the different needs of our residents to enable us to deliver quality, person-centred care and support.Your role will involve supervising and inspiring a team of dedicated Care Assistants alongside the Deputy General Manager.You

Enforce Health & Safety procedures, ensuring safe systems of work are followed at all times. Be proactive and diligent in identifying and addressing safety concerns.

We are seeking a highly skilled Social Worker to join our Intensive Support Team in the vibrant area of Medway, UK.This exciting opportunity offers you the chance to work within a supportive and innovative environment, where you will make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families

Are you an Occupational Therapist who’s passionate about helping children and young people reach their full potential? Whether you’re newly qualified or experienced,. Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and Play Therapists.

CAMHS Professionals is recruiting experienced Children's Residential Support Workers to join a bank of professionals supporting children's care homes across Surrey, on behalf of a local authority client.This is a flexible, ad hoc role where we work around your availability.Each week we'll reach out,

Locum Occupational Therapist – Major Adaptations Team. Sanctuary Personnel is seeking a skilled Occupational Therapist (OT) for our Major Adaptations Team in Newham. HCPC-registered Occupational Therapist.

The role focuses on promoting independence, dignity, safety, and overall wellbeing within a supported living environment. Ensure a safe living environment, including health & safety compliance.

Following a significant redesign, and a new model of care which will support all children and young people to thrive, Jersey CAMHS we are looking to recruit an additional consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist to join our multi-disciplinary team.The successful applicant will join the three exi

Neuro Occupational Therapist – Band 6. We are working with an NHS Trust to recruit a Band 6 Neuro Occupational Therapist to join the Neuro Early Supported Discharge and Community Neuro Rehabilitation Team. As a Neuro Occupational Therapist, you will play a key role in delivering specialist neurolo

The sales administrator supports the sales team by handling inbound and outbound customer communication, processing orders, maintaining accurate records and ensuring a smooth day-to day sales operations.Order Capture, Entry and management.Collating orders received by the wider team across the busine

Location: Handsworth Wood, Birmingham.Pay: Pay Up to £37,000 (depending on experience and qualifications).At Cambian Group, you’re not just working - you’re shaping futures, furthermore as a Support Worker, based within West Midlands every moment you spend with our young peo

Chartered Member of the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (CMIOSH);. I am recruiting for a Health and Safety Manager with CDM and rail experience to monitor and implement policies for a large civils construction project. As the Health and Safety Manager, you will have professional experien

We are looking for a Fire & Health & Safety Risk Assessor to join SRVO’s expanding Risk team, carrying out site-based Fire Risk Assessments and General Health & Safety Risk Assessments across a varied portfolio. You’ll also be confident liaising with clients, attending meetings where required, a

Strong background in behavioural safety and safety culture improvement. Reporting directly to the Head of Construction Health & Safety, you will play a critical role in shaping, leading, and embedding a world-class health, safety and wellbeing culture across one of Europe’s largest and most comple

With a commitment to safety, innovation and operational excellence, they offer a collaborative environment where employees can contribute to meaningful projects and ongoing business growth. Work closely with production and engineering teams to implement safety improvements. Coordinate contractor and

Collaborate with the Construction SHE Lead on safe-to-start and pre-start-up safety reviews. Experience with SHE studies, risk assessments and safety reviews in a project environment.

A respected and long-established Civil Engineering contractor, delivering complex infrastructure projects across water, wastewater, coastal, and flood protection, is seeking a Health and Safety Advisor to support the business across multiple sites in the South East of England. With a competitive sal

Sound knowledge of UK Health and Safety Legislation, Excellent Communication Skills, ability to interpret UK Health and Safety Legislation and good knowledge of the SQEMS procedures. Ensure that regular safety inspections are undertaken and recorded for all construction sites with feedback provided

UK-based infrastructure services company delivering critical energy, power, water, telecoms and social infrastructure projects.Following the acquisition of Wood’s UK Transmission & Distribution business, United Infrastructure has strengthened its capabilities in power engineering, construction and

The role focuses on promoting independence, dignity, safety, and overall wellbeing within a supported living environment. Ensure a safe living environment, including health & safety compliance.

Medical Centre Healthcare Assistant.We are seeking an experienced Healthcare Assistant to join our small and friendly team in providing GP services to the Chelsea Pensioners, who are all elderly veterans of the British army.As a key member of our clinical staff, you will contribute to the safe, effe

Following a significant redesign, and a new model of care which will support all children and young people to thrive, Jersey CAMHS we are looking to recruit an additional consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist to join our multi-disciplinary team.The successful applicant will join the three exi

As an Occupational Therapist / Clinical Advisor you will:. A degree or diploma in Occupational Therapy.

At CCH Group, we’re more than a care provider – we’re a passionate community dedicated to driving the sector to new heights with a history of doing so.Founded in 2009, we’ve grown into the nation’s largest care company, with over 260 locations and 14,000 care professionals delivering 1.Are

Competitive hourly pay for locum Occupational Therapists. Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, we specialise in connecting Occupational Therapists, social care professionals, and allied health staff with the best locum and permanent roles. Locum Occupational Therapist – Major Adaptations Team.

We are looking for committed, resilient, and compassionate Residential Support Workers to join our secure accommodation team in Sheffield.You will work with young people who are either vulnerable, on remand, or serving custodial sentences.This is a meaningful role where you can make a real differenc