Procure Plus delivered the Site Smart programme to support young people who were not in education, employment or training (NEET) to gain the skills, qualifications and experience needed to progress into employment, apprenticeships or further education.

Theo was keen to build a career in construction but faced a number of barriers after leaving school. He had experienced short periods of employment, but because of a challenging home situation and spending time in and out of care, he struggled to find the stability needed to commit to a long-term role. While he was interested in construction, he did not want to attend college full-time and lacked the confidence to apply for apprenticeship opportunities.

Theo was referred to the Site Smart programme by his support worker at Cheshire West and Chester Council. Despite concerns that changes in his living situation could affect his ability to commit to work, he was determined to take part and build a future in the industry.

Through Site Smart, Procure Plus worked with Kier to secure Theo a work placement, where he was placed with subcontractor D Morgan. To help him access the opportunity, Procure Plus provided a CSCS card and PPE, including boots, trousers and a jacket, support that would otherwise have been out of reach as Theo was only 16 at the time. Cheshire West and Chester Council also helped to make the placement possible by supporting Theo with travel and lunch costs.

Theo quickly embraced the structure and routine that came with being on site and asked if he could extend his placement for a second week. Recognising his commitment and potential, Procure Plus helped arrange the additional week, giving him more time to develop his skills and demonstrate what he could do.

His hard work paid off. Theo secured a Groundworks Apprenticeship with D Morgan and is now combining practical experience on site with college learning as he works towards a long-term career in construction.

Impact

Theo is now employed as a Groundworks Apprentice and has taken significant steps towards building a stable and positive future. Since starting work, his confidence and mental wellbeing have improved, and he now has the security of his own accommodation.

The apprenticeship has also provided financial stability, giving Theo a steady income rather than relying on benefits or insecure work. He feels invested in his employer because of the opportunity and support he has received and is optimistic about the future. Having once doubted he would ever get into construction without experience, Theo is now building a career in the industry and developing new skills through both work and college.

This case study highlights the impact that partnership working can have when the right support is put in place. Working together, Procure Plus, Cheshire West and Chester Council, Kier and D Morgan helped Theo overcome barriers to employment and access an apprenticeship that has transformed his prospects.

Theo said:

“I really enjoyed my work placement as it gave me structure and a reason to get out of bed. To get the job offer was amazing as it really has altered my life for the good”.

The employer said:

“Theo has started his apprenticeship and now attending college, he is doing very well. now he has turned 17 we are supporting him to get his provisional driving licence. In the coming months we will be putting him forward for training for his dumper and roller tickets. He is really doing very well and arrives at work on time everyday and get’s stuck in”.