Acorn Sacyr Spring 2026 Newsletter
May
Welcome to the latest Acorn/Sacyr UK new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) project news update. Every quarter we will tell you about project progress, what is going on within the community around the build, and initiatives that are taking place around the community connected with the project
Culture
Local minibus drivers keep staff moving
As construction of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) continues, two local transport providers are making a big impact behind the scenes.
Wayne Addis from Dubs Travel Minibus Hire and Jason Regan from JMR Travel are among the dedicated minibus drivers ensuring construction teams arrive on site, safely and on time to help the project run smoothly.
Dubs Travels Minibus Hire plays a vital role in the site’s logistics, transporting staff from designated car parks directly to the construction area.
Wayne said: “Being part of a project that will ultimately save thousands of lives is incredibly rewarding, and we’re honoured to contribute in any way we can.”
Jason confirmed that sense of pride. His team at JMR Travel also transports workers between car parks and the nVCC site, helping to limit congestion during this major build.
Jason said: “I’m serving the community by reducing traffic during construction and part of a team contributing to a service that will benefit patients and families.”
Katie Hathaway, Stakeholder Engagement and Community Benefits Manager at Sacyr UK, said: “Wayne and Jason’s contributions to the nVCC build highlight the importance of local involvement outside the construction itself. Their work maybe behind the scenes, but its value is unmistakable.”
Nurture
Disability Inclusion Academy recruits its first graduate
Aashley Nash, Ella Coates and Jack Thomas are the first three graduates to complete the Disability Inclusion Academy and have all been interviewed for possible first jobs at the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) site.
The Disability Inclusion Academy is a collaboration between Sacyr UK and the National Diversity Employment and Advisory Service (NDEAS). The initiative supports people who have been out of work due to a disability by providing opportunities to take their first step into a construction career.
The two‑week programme teaches trainees the basics of the construction industry, with at least one guaranteed a position with Sacyr UK on the nVCC project team – even though all have been interviewed. Aashley was the first to be offered a role.
Her mum Sarah said: “Aashley was recently diagnosed with autism. She left school with few qualifications and little confidence. We heard about the academy and were put in touch with Hannah at nVCC. After a simple questionnaire, Dan Biddle from NDEAS called, shared his story, and accepted Aashley onto the programme.
“She was nervous at first, but by day two Aashley was excited about what she had learned, talking about Dan and her new friends. By day three she was confidently catching the train on her own. For Aashley to be offered a job is wonderful and has boosted her confidence.”
Aashley has begun her role as Academy Support Assistant where she will soon be carrying out admin tasks linked to the individual training academies. Her responsibilities include managing spreadsheets and internal systems, coordinating programme information and sharing best practice across the academy.
Falcon Three bricklaying workshop
Falcon Three, the sub-contractors working on the new Velindre Cancer Centre, carried out its first bricklaying taster day on the nVCC site with students from Bryn Y Deryn School and Greenhill School.
Organised by Sacyr UK and Falcon Three, ten students from Years 10 to 12 were given the opportunity to learn the basics of brick laying.
The students learned what bricklayers do on a construction site, how bricklaying fits into the construction process and the different types of bricks, blocks and mortar. They were taught about health and safety, how to work safely around tools and materials, why PPE matters and safe lifting and handling.
Students got hands-on with trowels, spirit levels, mortar boards, tape measures and brick jointers. They learned what each tool does and how to handle it correctly, improving their confidence and practical skills.
They learned how to lay bricks in a straight line, create consistent joints and build a small section of a wall. Students practiced working in pairs or small groups, supporting each other with measurements and alignment, communicating clearly to complete a task.
The workshop ended with a short talk about apprenticeships, site roles, progression routes in construction and what employers look for in young people, giving them a better understanding of whether construction would be for them in the future.
Future
Pupils explore future STEM careers at Techniquest
Sacyr UK took part in the Techniquest Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) World of Work initiative – a two-day event designed to inspire the next generation.
Over 500 pupils aged 7 to 11, from 15 primary schools across South-East Wales attended, all eager to explore the wide range of STEM careers available.
Pupils engaged with employers from across the region, asking questions, discovering new ideas, and taking part in hands-on STEM activities. The aim was to spark curiosity and help young learners see themselves in future STEM roles.
Attendance for all participating schools was funded by The Edina Trust, whose support ensures that pupils in disadvantaged areas have access to educational experiences. Their contribution played a key role in making the event both accessible and fun.
Sacyr UK was proud to be part of such an inspiring initiative, helping to create opportunities for pupils and encourage a lifelong interest in STEM.
Celebrating the power of generosity and leadership
Sacyr UK joined Women in Property and homeless charity Llamau at Cardiff City Stadium to mark International Women’s Day (IWD), representing women in construction. The event focused on this year’s theme, Give to Gain, a reminder that small, intentional acts of generosity create lasting impact.
With 91 women currently working on the construction of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), Sacyr UK recognises the importance of creating platforms where women in the industry can share their experiences and be visible role models for future generations. The event was an opportunity to celebrate achievements, share insights, and highlight the value of inclusive leadership.
Speakers explored how giving time, skills, advocacy, sponsorship or resources can create opportunities for individuals and organisations. They reflected on how giving has shaped their careers, opened unexpected doors, and strengthened confidence for women and girls. These everyday actions help accelerate progress in female empowerment and representation across the construction industry.
Monthly Resident Drop-in Sessions
The next resident drop-in is scheduled for Wednesday 27 May 2026, from 6pm to 7pm at the Noddfa building at 19 Park Road by the Velindre Cancer Centre rear car park. Members of the Acorn, Sacyr and Velindre team will be on hand to discuss progress on our works and answer any questions.
These take place on the last Wednesday of the month for the duration of the construction programme. For more information about the project, visit the website at: https://newvelindre.info/
