New Building Lives Academy launches at Derriford Hospital to create pathways into construction careers
A pioneering initiative designed to tackle social exclusion and open doors to careers in construction launched today on 19 January as part of the social value commitment from Willmott Dixon during the construction of Derriford Hospital’s new Emergency Care Building.
The Building Lives Academy will be delivered in partnership with Willmott Dixon and Greenlight Training Ltd, and supported by Sphere Solutions, Seetec and regional recruitment and supply chain partners.
The academy offers entry-level qualifications, hands-on work experience, and employability support for individuals who are economically inactive or facing barriers to employment. Participants will gain essential skills, get support with CV writing, job hunting and interview practice to help them find employment. Participants can also achieve a Constructions Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card and qualifications such as a Level 1 Certificate in Construction Operations or Health and Safety at Work.
Each cohort will train 10 to 15 local residents, providing tailored courses throughout the construction programme. Graduates will be supported into work placements with Willmott Dixon and its supply chain partners, ensuring uninterrupted pathways to employment.
One of the first to participate in the initiative is Philip from Launceston (pictured below). He explains: “It’s really nice to have something in place to help people improve their lives. I have dyslexia and, at times, it’s been hard - that’s a reality for a lot of people. I’m enjoying the training and hope to get my CSCS card and a job.”
Nicki Collas, Deputy Director of the Future Hospital Programme at University Hospitals Plymouth, said: “This initiative, a first of its kind for Plymouth, is a brilliant example of using the size and scale of our construction programme to positive effect. We are hugely grateful to Willmott Dixon and Greenlight for providing the facility and resources, which will help improve lives within our city”.
Harvey Smith, Greenlight’s Commercial Director, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to ensure this milestone project leaves a legacy for the city and positively impacts as many individuals as possible who are looking to enter the construction and built environment sectors. Greenlight is thrilled to have been selected by Willmott Dixon as the academy delivery partner.”
Daffne Aguilar, Willmott Dixon’s Social Value Manager, said: “‘The Willmott Dixon project team are thrilled to launch the first cohort of Building Lives Academies. Supporting individuals in our community who face barriers to employment - and equipping them with meaningful new skills - is just as vital as addressing the talent gaps within our industry. This programme gives people a pathway to grow, succeed, and step confidently into the roles our sector needs, and we are proud to be part of that impact.”
The Emergency Care Building will transform urgent and emergency care across the South West peninsula, replacing Derriford’s 50 year old Emergency Department with modern, purpose-built spaces. This development marks a major milestone for UHP, which runs one of the busiest emergency departments in the region and serves as its major trauma centre.
