An appeal has been launched to donate tools, timber and other construction materials ahead of the opening of a new post-16 training centre in Wortley in September.
The appeal, by Pudsey-based Building Futures Together (BFT), will see the new centre provide practical construction training for young people disengaged from education and at risk of becoming Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET).
The new facility will welcome its first cohort of students in September, providing an alternative pathway into education, training and employment through practical learning in construction, plumbing and electrical skills.
Established in 2020 to help prevent young people from becoming NEET and provide hands-on construction experience, Community Interest Company BFT is now appealing for support with the cost of equipping its new centre. Businesses are being asked to consider donating timber, tools, hardware, shelving, storage solutions, surplus or damaged stock, or offering materials at a discounted rate.
John Thornton, managing director and co-founder of Building Futures Together, said: “As a Community Interest Company, our focus is on supporting the young people in our community, not making a profit.
“With immediate set-up costs proving higher than anticipated, we’re appealing to local companies and retailers to help us ensure we have all the materials and tools our learners need, whatever their ability, background or personal journey, to obtain a high-quality vocational education and pathways into employment.
“We would be extremely grateful for any support. It would mean that we can continue to ensure that resources are directed towards those who need it most.”
Young people attending the post-16 course will gain practical knowledge and experience in electrical and plumbing skills. The programme includes an introduction to health and safety in construction, site preparation, and practical tasks such as installing lighting circuits and sockets, removing and refitting radiators, and bending, joining and connecting copper pipes.
On completion, learners will achieve the City & Guilds Level 1 Award in Construction and/or Level 1 Diploma in Construction Skills.
The new centre builds on BFT’s existing work in Pudsey, which supported 124 learners during the 2025/26 academic year and collaborated with 15 commissioning partners, including Leeds City Council, Pudsey Grammar School, Carlton Academy Trust, Co-op Priesthorpe, Immanuel College, Broomfield South Specialist Inclusion Learning Centre, West SILK, Leeds City College and Barnsley Council.
Businesses that can donate materials or equipment can drop them off at the new facility, or BFT can arrange collection where possible.
To support Building Futures Together and the next generation of construction workers, please contact office@buildingfuturestogether.com.
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This is a very good scheme and hope it is successful and expands quickly.. have they considered going on “Gumtree” asking for donations… quite often folk are giving away bricks wood etc…..all they will need mebbes is the transport.
Great idea.