Being piloted at the Group’s branch in Thanet, this exciting collaboration aims to engage and inspire young people—particularly those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds—by providing tailored skills masterclasses, hands-on work experience, and mentorship opportunities.
As part of Rise Up’s "Building Aspirations" programme, young people will take part in activities designed to build confidence, practical skills, and career readiness. Through this initiative, participants will gain exposure to real-world work environments and develop the tools they need to succeed in the workplace.
Roman Dibden, Rise Up Charity Director said:
I’m excited to get started on the Thanet trial. I left school at 14 and began my journey as a housing apprentice so it is a full-circle moment for me to expand Rise Up’s support into this sector and show young people the diverse range of careers within housing. Partnering with Mears Group, a company committed to delivering a best-in-class apprenticeship programme, marks an exciting step forward. We are delighted to welcome Mears as one of our valued partners and look forward to working closely together to transform opportunities for the next generation.
While the programme offers a pipeline of talent for Mears, the initiative’s scope goes beyond recruitment. All participants will benefit from transferable skills and professional development that will prepare them for success in any career they choose.
Apprenticeships project manager, Jamie Lee Ward said:
Our partnership with Rise Up is a fantastic opportunity to connect with young people in harder to reach communities and provide them with the tools and confidence they need to succeed after leaving school. We’re especially excited to launch our first workshops in Thanet, an area in the Southeast with some of the highest levels of youth unemployment, where we know this initiative can make a real impact.
For those who successfully secure apprenticeships with Mears Group, the partnership ensures continued support, as Rise Up remains engaged to provide guidance and help new apprentices stay on track as they progress in their roles.
This collaboration supports the Groups efforts to deliver social value, advance its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals, and address critical workforce shortages.
To get involved visit www.riseupuk.org
The initiative is funded by The Mears Foundation, the independent charitable arm of the Mears Group and reflects a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and meaningful community impact.
