COEL pledges its support for FutureIN construction apprentices
Design and build fit-out company COEL has pledged to support FutureIN property and construction apprentices with the tools and bags they need in their work.
FutureIN was set up by individuals from Howard Group, Morgan Sindall, Urban&Civic and YMCA Trinity who now run it in partnership with TrAC, a not-for-profit company that places the apprentices, New Community Land Trust and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Gifting eight tool kits a year, COEL wanted to support FutureIN which works with young people who are, or at risk of being, homeless. It offers the chance to gain experience in construction, preparing people for apprenticeships with TrAC.
Shannon, 25, is the first to benefit. She is going into her second year of training as part of an NVQ Level 3 apprenticeship but has already been on sites for three years, including Unity Campus with T Clark and Station Road, Cambridge.
Now working with Munro at Cambridge Judge Business School, she is supported by colleagues, TrAC, and DWP mentor Annie Wolf.
Shannon said: “I have been with FutureIN/TrAC for almost two years and started my installation electrician and maintenance electrician apprenticeship 14 months ago. I have learned a lot and grown a lot in confidence and this has been made easier as there’s always someone I can talk to at FutureIN/TrAC if I need support or guidance.”
Shortly after, COEL donated a tool kit to Korban, 21, an apprentice with Taylor Hart Ltd working on the Bowmer and Kirkland site in Sawston, helping to deliver South Cambridge Science Centre. Beyond his apprenticeship Korban hopes to be kept on for future projects in construction.
Thanks to the support of various organisations in the programme, including TrAC and a network of contractors, the initiative is making significant strides.
FutureIN said: “FutureIN is transforming the lives of vulnerable individuals eager to start careers in construction. Participants are gaining valuable, supported placements on major projects across the Greater Cambridge area, giving them a unique opportunity to enter the construction industry – an opportunity they might not have otherwise had.
“Beyond offering placements, contractors can support the programme in many impactful ways. They can sponsor an apprentice, assist with transportation or, as COEL has generously done with Shannon and Korban in providing essential tools. They were both delighted to receive a compete tool kit – an invaluable resource they could not have afforded on their own.
“This contribution ensures they have everything they need to fully carry out their responsibilities and advance in their roles. FutureIN extends its heartfelt gratitude to COEL for their commitment and generosity in supporting Shannon, Korban and the programme as a whole.”
COEL said: “The FutureIN apprenticeship scheme resonates with COEL’s ethos and culture of empowering and training young people in construction skills. We loved meeting Shannon and Korban and hearing about their journeys so far, they should be very proud of what they have achieved, and we look forward to supporting other apprentices.”
Find out more at futurein.org.uk.
https://www.futurein.org.uk/
