Project summary

Hampshire County Council successfully delivered a CITB-funded England Construction Opportunities (ECO) employment support programme, helping 275 new entrants access and sustain careers within the construction industry. The project built upon the Council's established role in connecting local communities with construction employers through Employment and Skills Plans (ESPs) and strong relationships with developers, contractors and housing providers across Hampshire. Throughout the programme, Hampshire County Council worked closely with a wide network of construction partners, including Willmott Dixon, Morgan Sindall, Wates, Kier, Taylor Wimpey, Berkeley Group, Barratt Homes, Bellway, Vistry Partnerships and other major employers operating across the county. These partnerships provided a consistent pipeline of employment and progression opportunities for participants entering the sector. he project focused on supporting individuals not only into employment but also through the critical early stages of their careers. Drawing on experience gained through previous employment and skills programmes, the ECO team provided personalised guidance, mentoring and practical support to help participants overcome barriers to retention and progression.

Participants benefited from access to Hampshire County Council Adult and Community Learning (ACL) provision, including workshops such as Mentally Prepared for Work, Developing Confidence and Self-Esteem, and Confidence and Motivation. These interventions helped individuals build resilience, confidence and the employability skills needed to thrive within the construction industry.

Additional support was provided through one-to-one guidance, drop-in sessions and access to industry professionals and volunteers from the Council's construction sector network. This enabled participants to receive tailored advice, sector insight and ongoing encouragement throughout their employment journey.

The project successfully demonstrated the value of combining employer engagement, personalised support and skills development to improve retention and progression outcomes for new entrants. By helping individuals overcome personal and workplace challenges, the programme contributed to the development of a more sustainable and resilient construction workforce across Hampshire.

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