Sacyr UK and Cardiff Council join forces to support jobseekers
Aug
Sacyr UK, the contractor building the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), has partnered with Cardiff Councils ‘Onsite Construction Academy’ to launch a new project to support people who are looking to re-enter the workforce by providing them with pre-employment opportunities as well as practical work experience.
Sacyr UK worked with Kodie Jones from PeoplePlus’ Jobs Growth Wales Plus scheme to design the artwork for the shipping container, creating a design that was not only visually impactful but also helps drive a sustainable change. The container, donated by EMR Cardiff’s recycling facility, has been transformed into a dedicated Resource Hub for the nVCC project.
It now serves as a temporary storage unit, and houses recyclable materials such as timber, plywood, cardboard, bricks, and PPE. These items are made available for collection and reuse by approved organisations, helping to ensure valuable resources are diverted from waste and put to meaningful use.
The initiative gave six people looking to get back into work the chance to take part in a two-week course run by Onsite Construction Academy, offering practical work experience and the chance to show potential for future employment with Sacyr and its supply chain.
Harlequin Print Ltd also played a key role by donating printed design boards, some of which were sourced from Cardiff Rugby. Its contribution supported the use of recycled materials and reinforced the project’s commitment to promoting the circular economy wherever possible.
Hannah Jenkins, Workforce Development Coordinator at Sacyr UK, the contractor building the nVCC on behalf of Acorn, said:
“The initiative showcases Sacyr UK’s dedication to supporting local social, voluntary and community organisations by donating 100 tonnes of material, but it was also aimed at supporting individuals and providing them with the essential skills and knowledge needed for future employment opportunities, with five of the six candidates now employed on the project.
“We are incredibly excited about this project. Not only are we helping the long term unemployed or those people not in education or training back into work, but we are also reducing waste and supporting our local communities in a meaningful way.”
Ben Taylor of EMR Recycling, who sourced the shipping container, said:
“EMR shares Sacyr’s commitment to creating lasting positive impact in the communities in which it operates, so are delighted to support the ‘Into Work’ initiative. The donation of the shipping container gives it a new life and supports the local community with surplus materials. EMR are also working with Sacyr to recycle the end-of-life metals from the project.”
Joe Cicero from Onsite Construction Academy said: “The week-long project equipped our learners with the skills and experiences needed to start their careers in construction, a sector with a growing need for new entrants.
Joe continued:
“The feedback was glowing with beneficiaries saying they felt supported every step of the way by the Onsite Construction Academy and Sacyr UK and left with a real confidence boost. The partnership between Cardiff Council’s Onsite Construction Academy and Sacyr UK demonstrates the strength of employability programmes and contractors coming together to create successful employment pathways.
“This experience is a great example of how big things happen when people think outside the box and work together. Any challenges were tackled with creativity, practical problem-solving and a positive mindset. The results are something everyone involved can be proud of.”
For more information, visit its dedicated website at https://newvelindre.info/home
