by Identity | Oct 30, 2025
Kier is a leading provider of infrastructure services and construction, as well as a property developer focused on urban regeneration. We sustainably deliver works that are vital to communities throughout the UK. Our business has 4 divisions: Transportation, Natural Resources, Nuclear and Networks, Construction and Property.
We’re excited to offer work placement opportunities and long-term, sustainable careers to young people through our commitments in the Care Leaver Covenant. Our role types are extremely diverse and many come with opportunities for ongoing development and progression, which might be exactly what you’re looking for to kick start an exciting career. Maybe you’ve never considered working in the construction and infrastructure industry, and a short-term work placement experience might be best for you to best decide what you’re passionate about! Whatever it is, we want to hear from you!
What skills do you already have for a career at Kier?
You may already have skills that could help you succeed in the workplace without even realising it. Whether you’re a gamer, footballer, dancer, volunteer or have other interests, you’ve likely developed strengths such as teamwork, communication, problem solving and resilience along the way. Take a look at the stories below to discover how people have turned the skills developed through their passions and hobbies into careers with Kier.
From gamer to construction professional
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From football pitch to Kier
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From professional dancer to construction manager
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Social Media
by Kieron McCarthy | Oct 27, 2025
About Heathrow
Heathrow is the UK’s largest airport and a major international travel hub. More than just an airport, it is a diverse and dynamic workplace offering a wide range of careers across engineering, operations, hospitality, business services and more. We are proud to support care leavers through dedicated services that help open up pathways into meaningful employment.
Our Offer to Care Leavers
Are you a Care Leaver who is interested in apprenticeship and employment opportunities?
Discover the diverse range of vacancies that Heathrow offers by visiting our website. We currently have opportunities in the following sectors:
- Aviation
- Construction
- Customer Service
- Hospitality
- Logistics
- Retail
- Travel Services
How to Take Up This Offer
If you are interested in apprenticeships and employment please apply here using the form.
Once you submit your form, a dedicated member of our Heathrow Employment and Skills Academy team will reach out to you. They will guide you through our ‘buddy’ system, designed to help you thrive in your career at Heathrow.
With personalised support, you’ll explore various roles, match your skills to the right positions, enhance your CV, and sharpen your interview techniques to secure your new job!
Want to find out more about:
Check out our LinkedIn and hour Heathrow Academy Vacancies page here
by Kieron McCarthy | Oct 22, 2025
Location: Staffordshire
BayNel is an independent specialist sustainability strategy consultancy founded by Rachel and Lucy and based in Burton on Trent. We work with businesses of all sizes from publicly listed, privately owned together with social enterprises and charities. And offer a range of services from helping organisations to understand their carbon footprint, developing sustainability strategies to understanding and measuring the impact they have on society .
We would be happy to provide insight sessions to care experienced young people in order to showcase the work we do and the sectors we work in.
Taking up this Offer
by Kieron McCarthy | Oct 17, 2025
Location – Rochdale, Greater Manchester
O’Neill & Brennan is a leading recruitment and logistics partner to the construction industry, offering a wide range of opportunities across the UK. We are committed to supporting individuals from all backgrounds into meaningful, long-term employment and providing guidance and mentoring throughout the process.
This opportunity forms part of our partnership with the Care Leaver Covenant, supporting care leavers to access employment, gain valuable site experience, and build sustainable careers in construction.
Cleaner Role
Responsible for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness across all areas of a busy residential construction site, including welfare cabins, offices, toilets, and general site spaces. Duties include sweeping, mopping, emptying bins, and replenishing supplies to ensure a safe and tidy environment for all site staff.
A CSCS card is essential. The role requires good attention to detail, reliability, and a proactive attitude. Previous cleaning experience on a construction site is beneficial but not essential, as full guidance and on-site support will be provided.
Requirements:
- CSCS/CPCS card
- Valid Traffic Marshall or Banksman ticket (preferred)
- Previous site experience (preferred but not essential)
- Strong communication and safety awareness
Job Details:
- Start date: 3rd November (confirmed)
- Hours: Approx. 7:30am – 5:00pm (Mon–Fri, with some Saturdays as required)
- Location: Rochdale (postcode OL11 1DZ)
- Pay: £16.50–£17 per hour (Umbrella or CIS)
- Contract length: Up to 48 months
- Type of work: Residential project
We are also recruiting for General Labourer position on the same project, with opportunities to progress and develop within the company.
Pastoral Care at O’Neill & Brennan
At O’Neill & Brennan, we place strong emphasis on pastoral care and ongoing wellbeing support for all our operatives. Our dedicated Social Value team provides personalised guidance before, during, and after placement to ensure each individual feels prepared and supported.
Before starting, candidates receive clear information about their role and what to expect. On their first day, our Account Managers meet operatives on-site, ensuring a smooth transition and providing any required PPE. We carry out regular check-ins during the first week and continue ongoing communication throughout employment.
Operatives always have access to a dedicated support network via phone, WhatsApp, or email. In addition, we partner with Mates in Mind and the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity to offer mental health and wellbeing support whenever needed.
Next Steps
Who can access the offer:
- Rochdale residents (local employment is a key priority)
- Care leavers with an interest in construction
- Candidates holding a valid CSCS/CPCS card
How to apply:
To register your interest or for more information, please contact:
Email: socialvalue@oandb.co.uk
Phone: 01707 648 880
Alternatively, visit our website to learn more about our opportunities:
www.oneillandbrennan.com
Support for care leavers:
Care leavers will receive guidance through the interview process, help with documentation, and ongoing on-site support from our dedicated team once placed.
We are a Disability Confident Employer: ✅ Yes
We actively consider applications from people with criminal convictions: ✅ Yes
by Kieron McCarthy | Oct 17, 2025
Location – National
Big Issue Recruit (BIR) is a specialist recruitment service dedicated to supporting individuals who face barriers to employment, with a strong emphasis on building sustainable careers.
As part of our commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant, we will provide tailored support to care leavers aged 18 and above, with a focus on those aged 18–30. Our offer includes:
- Employability Coaching: One-to-one personalised coaching sessions to help care leavers develop CVs, prepare for interviews, and build confidence for the workplace.
- Job Matching & Placement: Access to a wide range of employers and opportunities across multiple sectors, with placements supported by our recruitment specialists.
- Training Opportunities: Referral into further training and skills development programmes through our partner network, particularly for projects requiring minimum entry qualifications.
- Post-Placement Support: Ongoing mentoring and monthly check-ins for up to 6 months after starting work, ensuring long-term retention and progression.
- Peer Support: Access to group sessions where care leavers can share experiences, build networks, and learn from others who have successfully transitioned into work.
- Inclusive Employer Partnerships: We work closely with employers to ensure inclusive recruitment practices, workplace adjustments, and long-term opportunities for progression.
Through this package of support, we aim to empower care leavers to overcome barriers, secure meaningful employment, and build a sustainable career pathway.
Taking Up This Offer
- Who can access the offer?
Care leavers aged 18 and above with the right to work in the uk, with a particular focus on those aged 18–30. No specific entry requirements beyond willingness to engage.
- How to access:
Referrals can be made directly by local authorities, referral partners, or care leavers themselves.
- Website: bigissue.com/big-issue-recruit/
- Email: jobs@bigissue.com
