At 19, Charlie was eager to start his career in plumbing. He had successfully completed his Level 2 Plumbing qualification at college but struggled to find work. With no job opportunities in sight, his confidence took a hit, and he began to lose motivation. That was when the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea referred him to our Building Opportunities programme.

From the start, it was clear that Charlie had potential. He just needed the right guidance and support. His CYT coach focused on rebuilding his confidence and equipping him with the skills to navigate the job market. Through regular one to one coaching, CV workshops and mock interviews with industry professionals, Charlie gained the self-belief and practical experience to approach employers with confidence.

Beyond employability skills, we wanted to open Charlie’s eyes to the full scope of opportunities within the construction industry. Meeting experienced professionals, including project managers and electricians, was a turning point for him. A conversation with a project manager about career progression in plumbing made him realise how many possibilities were available to him.

This new perspective gave him fresh motivation to secure an apprenticeship. With his renewed confidence and the support of his coach, he applied for an exciting opportunity as a Level 3 Plumbing Apprentice with a local firm.

Charlie was thrilled to be invited for an interview and even more so when he was offered the role immediately. Now he is on his way to building a successful career and we look forward to seeing everything he achieves in the future.

Construction Youth Trust works in local communities across London and North Kent, targeting areas with a high proportion of low-income households and significant construction and regeneration.

Building Opportunities is an intensive coaching programme for disadvantaged young people who are unemployed or at-risk of falling out of the system. Our programme targets the very hardest-to-reach young people in our hub areas and encourages them to take positive next steps towards rewarding work suited to their individual abilities and interests.