The Prince’s Trust is a charity which helps 11 to 30-year-olds going through a difficult time, find employment, education and training opportunities. Many of the young people the charity supports are in or leaving care, struggling at school, have been in trouble with the law, or are facing issues such as homelessness or mental health. The Trust’s free programmes give young people the practical and financial support they need to stabilise their lives.
Being a charity, the Trust relies on support from partners, businesses and volunteers.
We supported the Trust’s ‘Future Steps into Construction’ and ‘Get into Construction’ programmes, during our work on The Box, Plymouth. These programmes are designed to help unemployed young people looking to join the construction industry.
It was through the Trust that we met young female carpenter, Kat. A recent care leaver, Kat had previously taken the Get into Construction course where she completed her level 1 and 2 carpentry qualifications. Unfortunately, she was unable to complete her level 3, due to personal circumstances that also left her unable to work.
We arranged a work placement for Kat with our supply chain partner R.P. Barry. At first, Kat was anxious about working on a construction site as she felt the industry may not accept her as a female. However, Kath’s confidence grew and after working on the project for five months she is now starting a carpentry apprenticeship with R.P. Barry.
‘‘As someone who has benefited from one of the Trust’s programmes over 7 years ago, it is great to be able to give something back and ensure that our work at The Box helps to leave a legacy for the young people in the community.” - Adam Moxey, Assistant Building Manager, Willmott Dixon.
