A Pudsey charity has been announced as a finalist for a prestigious national award recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the small charity world.
Building Futures Together, which works to inspire young people through vocational learning and construction-based work experience, has been nominated for a Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) Award.
The CSJ Awards seek out the top charities nationwide, highlighting those that excel in innovation and effectiveness in the fight against poverty. The diverse panel of judges includes David Gandy, BAFTA-Winning Actor Toby Jones, and past CSJ Award winners along with cross-sector experts that come together to select the winners.
The Awards celebrate the best of the small charity sector who are providing innovative policy solutions to address the root causes of poverty across the UK.
Just over one in eight young people aged 16–24 is not in education, employment or training. A period out of education or work can cost a young person up to £50,000 in lifetime earnings.
Building Futures Together offers vocational construction training for young people facing challenges or distancing themselves from mainstream education. Young people attend its purpose-built vocational training centre in Pudsey as part of plumbing, electrical, and building-services placements commissioned by schools and local authorities. There, they engage in activities that simulate real workplace settings.
John Thornton, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Building Futures Together, said: “We are proud to be named a finalist in the 2026 CSJ Awards. At Building Futures Together, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential.
“We’re a specialist alternative vocational provision delivering construction, plumbing and electrical courses and qualifications that help young people build confidence, gain practical skills and take positive steps towards employment.
“This recognition shines a light on the remarkable young people we work alongside every day and the impact that community-based support can have. We are honoured that the Centre for Social Justice has recognised our work and the difference being made across West Yorkshire.”
Andy Cook, CEO of the Centre for Social Justice, said: “While political uncertainty continues at home and global challenges mount, there’s an army of small charities in some of our most deprived communities across the UK quietly rolling up their sleeves and changing lives.
“The CSJ Awards are the Oscars of the small charity sector where we celebrate the very best of those unsung heroes who rarely get the recognition they deserve.
“Today we are proud to announce our twelve 2026 finalists. We will be revealing the winners at our CSJ Awards ceremony in the heart of Westminster this November.”
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