Young people give back by renovating pre-school play area
Through our ‘Investing in Rehabilitation’ grant programme the Trust has supported Construction Youth Trust in a collaboration with Kent Youth Justice and KCC Early Help. The aim of the collaboration is to break the cycle of reoffending by engaging young offenders in a practical project which benefits their local community. Over four days, young people worked with industry volunteers to renovate the outside area of the Owl Pre-School in Gravesend, laying down new Astroturf, constructing benches and making a sand pit for the children to play with.
“We could never raise the sort of funds to do this, so the benefit to our children will be fantastic. The boys have given something to us, and hopefully we can give them something back by giving them the opportunity to get these skills and be part of a project that they can see from beginning to end, and that benefits others.” – Natalie, Deputy Manager of the Owl Pre-School
Through the programme participants were given an immersive insight into the construction and built environment industry, widening their career horizons and inspiring them to take their next steps. It was a rainy few days, but despite the less than perfect conditions the young men remained focussed and worked really hard over the week, and ended up with a final result they could be proud of.
Moving forward, all participants will be given careers information, advice and guidance enabling them to decide upon their best next steps. Young people interested in pursuing a career in construction and the built environment will receive long-term mentoring and intensive progression support, including CSCS card and Level 1 Health and Safety training, with the aim of achieving sustainable training or employment within the sector.
27/02/20
