COEL has pledged to support FutureIN Property and Construction Apprentices with the tools and tool bags they need to support them with their work on Construction sites across Cambridgeshire.

Gifting eight tool kits a year, COEL wanted to pledge support to FutureIN who work with young people who may already be or be at risk from homelessness.

Their unique apprenticeship offers those in vulnerable and challenging positions an opportunity to gain experience within construction, preparing them to take on apprenticeships with their partner TrAC.

FutureIn was set up by individuals from Howard Group, Morgan Sindall, Urban &Civic, and YMCA Trinity who now run it in partnership with TrAC, New Community Land Trust and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Shannon, age 25, is the first to benefit from this charitable gifting. Shannon is now going into her 2nd year of training as part of her NVQ level 3 Electrical Installation apprenticeship but has already been on sites for 3 years including Unity Campus with T Clark and Station Road, Cambridge.

Now working with Munro at Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, she is in a great position and feels supported by colleagues and the TrAC team, as well as benefitting from her mentor, Annie Wolf, The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Shannon commented:

“I have been with FutureIN / TrAC for almost 2 years and started my Installation Electrician & Maintenance Electrician Apprenticeship 14 months ago. I have learnt a lot and grown a lot in confidence over the past 2 years 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, aged 21, who is an apprentice with Taylor Hart Limited. Korban is 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 as he has developed a taste for construction.

From Left to right: Matt Saxby, Senior Site Manager for Bowmer and Kirkland, Lizzie Bradbury, Communication and Engagement Manager at COEL, Korban from FutureIn Apprenticeships and Yuri Hutsaluk Site Manager at Taylor Hart Limited.

FutureIN said:

“FutureIN is transforming the lives of vulnerable individuals eager to start careers in construction. Thanks to the support of various organisations involved in the programme, including TrAC and a network of contractors, the initiative is making significant strides. FutureIN participants are now 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 her 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 reflected:

“ The FutureIn apprenticeship scheme resonate with COEL’s ethos and culture in terms 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 moving forward.”

Please visit FutureIn if you would like to learn more about the scheme and how you can support FutureIn Apprentices.