At Serious About Youth (SAY), we’re on a mission to transform lives, empower young people, and build a stronger, more inclusive construction industry. Our Construkt programme isn’t just a training initiative — it’s a vital pathway for young people to gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in the construction and engineering sectors.
For many young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds such as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) individuals, and women, finding a career in construction can feel out of reach. Despite their potential, high unemployment rates, limited knowledge of industry opportunities, and systemic barriers have kept too many bright and talented individuals on the sidelines. Women represent just 15% of the construction workforce, with only 2% working on-site, while individuals from BAME backgrounds make up a mere 6%. These stark disparities highlight the urgent need to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and accessible construction sector for all.
At the same time, the construction industry is facing a workforce crisis. Brexit has intensified recruitment challenges, with many skilled workers leaving the sector and fewer recruits from Europe. With 25% of the workforce set to retire within the next decade, companies are grappling with a critical skills shortage. Compounding this is the growing pressure to meet social value and section 106 targets — essential for creating sustainable and inclusive communities.
Construkt is the solution!
80% of Construkt participants come from BAME backgrounds, and 30% are women.
We engage young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, providing comprehensive training, hands-on workshops, live site visits, and invaluable work placements with leading industry firms. Our programme not only empowers young people to build their futures but also directly supports construction companies in meeting their social value obligations and Section 106 targets. By working with us, companies can fulfil key commitments while investing in the next generation of skilled workers.
Why Your Support Matters? Your donation will help us:
- Deliver essential training sessions and workshops.
- Facilitate life-changing work placements and apprenticeships.
- Provide ongoing mentorship and career guidance for our participants.
- Expand our reach to engage even more young people from underrepresented communities.
Every pound you donate is a step toward solving the sector’s skills shortage, while creating brighter futures for young people. Whether you’re an individual or a corporate organisation, your support will make a direct impact.
With £10,000, we can deliver a one-week Construkt programme! Your donation isn’t just about funding a programme — it’s about building careers, breaking barriers, and contributing to a more diverse and inclusive industry.
Join us in ‘Construkting’ a better future, one young person at a time. Together, we can build more than just careers — we can build a thriving, inclusive construction sector for all.
Let’s make it happen. Donate today and help us empower the next generation!