The Army Benevolent Fund has awarded Building Heroes a grant of £5,600 for its innovative programme equipping Army veterans with the skills and training needed for careers in the construction industry.
Building Heroes is dedicated to helping military personnel transition to civilian life through training and employment opportunities in the construction industry. Our funding will support a new pilot programme tailored specifically for Army veterans. This will help them gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in civilian careers while addressing the UK’s critical shortage of skilled construction workers.
This new pilot programme responds to an issue previously observed in mixed-cohort training, where participants often separate into their respective services. By creating a dedicated space for Army veterans, the course aims to improve group cohesion, enhance training outcomes, and support veterans in rebuilding confidence after leaving service.
Delivered at one of Building Heroes’ established training centres, the course will provide industry-recognised qualifications, employability training, and a year’s follow-up support to help learners secure jobs or explore self-employment in a sector facing a shortage.
Since its founding in 2014, Building Heroes has trained over 3,000 service leavers, veterans, reservists, and military family members, equipping them with Level 1 and 2 construction qualifications, Health & Safety training, and CSCS cards. Alongside technical training, the charity provides employability coaching, welfare support, and free workwear.
Christopher Charles, Chief Executive of Building Heroes, said:
“Thanks to the generous support of the Army Benevolent Fund, we were able to deliver a dedicated programme for Army veterans at our Ibstock Academy. Every learner successfully achieved the Level 1 City & Guilds qualification, CSCS card and Health & Safety certificate, with 40% already progressing into construction careers through employment, self-employment or further training.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, added:
“We are proud to partner with Building Heroes on this vital initiative. Their work is transforming lives, offering veterans not only a pathway into meaningful employment but also a sense of purpose, community, and belonging after leaving service. This pilot will help ensure that Army veterans receive the specialised support they need as they start the next chapter of their lives.”
To find out more about Building Heroes and its work transforming veteran’s lives through skills and opportunity, visit its website.