Solent Freeport and Solent Growth Partnership launch new £50,000 apprenticeship incentive to support SMEs and young people
Solent Freeport, in partnership with the Solent Growth Partnership through the Solent Business Growth Service, has today launched a new £50,000 Apprenticeship Incentive Programme designed to help small and medium-sized businesses across the Solent region recruit an apprentice for the first time, while supporting young people who have previously been not in education, employment or training (NEET). Solent Freeport, in partnership with the Solent Growth Partnership through the Solent Business Growth Service, has today launched a new £50,000 Apprenticeship Incentive Programme designed to help small and medium-sized businesses across the Solent region recruit an apprentice for the first time, while supporting young people who have previously been not in education, employment or training (NEET). The programme offers financial incentives of up to £2,000 per apprentice to eligible employers, alongside tailored business support, helping to reduce recruitment barriers, strengthen local skills pipelines and support inclusive economic growth across the Solent. The incentive fund will support: Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and availability. The initiative focuses on four priority growth sectors critical to the Solent economy: By targeting employers who are taking on an apprentice for the first time, and apprentices who were previously NEET, the programme aims to unlock opportunity for those furthest from the labour market while supporting businesses to invest in the future workforce they need. Brian Johnson, Chair of the Solent Freeport said:“This programme is about creating real opportunity – for employers who want to grow but face recruitment challenges, and for individuals who need a route into skilled employment. By working with the Solent Growth Partnership, we’re ensuring Freeport investment directly supports people, productivity and long-term prosperity across the region.” Rachael Randall, Chair of the Solent Growth Partnership Business Board added:“Apprenticeships are a proven way for SMEs to build skills and talent, but the first step can feel daunting. This incentive, combined with practical business support through the Solent Business Growth Service, helps employers take that step with confidence while opening doors for young people who might otherwise be left behind.” In addition to the financial incentive, participating employers will receive guidance through the Solent Business Growth Service, supporting them with recruitment, onboarding and longer-term business growth. Eligibility and applications To be eligible, employers must: Apprenticeship starts must fall within the programme application window, and applications cannot be made retrospectively. Further details, including full terms and conditions and application guidance, are available via the Solent Business Growth Service on www.solentgrowthpartnership.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Huws Gray appoints new Operations Director for Plant & Tool Hire to expand its offering across the UK
Huws Gray, a national building materials supplier providing end-to-end solutions to tradespeople and the DIY market, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jon Mugridge as Operations Director for Plant & Tool Hire as the Company continues to target strengthening its offering and expanding its presence across the country. With over 30 years of operational and retail leadership experience, Jon has a track record of driving improvements and delivering growth. He began his career at B&Q at the age of 16, progressing from a checkout operator to General Manager, before moving to Homebase, B&M and WH Smith where he held senior regional management positions. Jon’s most recent role was with Brandon Hire Station, where he was National Operations Director. In this role, he led the implementation and adherence of a number of important procedures, implemented cultural change initiatives across the business and delivered improvements within its health and safety performance. Given his considerable experience and expertise, Jon will lead the Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire division’s focus on operational excellence, colleague development, continued excellence in health and safety, and supporting the long-term growth ambitions of the business. Jon Mugridge, Operations Director at Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire, commented: “I am delighted to be joining Huws Gray at such an exciting point in its journey. There is a real opportunity here to deliver a first-class service, expand our offering across the country and deliver meaningful growth. In my career, I have always focused on colleague development and creating safe working environments, with a strong belief in empowering teams to deliver their best results, and I look forward to continuing this at Huws Gray.” Shaun Allen, Chief Operating Officer of Huws Gray, added: “Jon brings a huge amount of operational experience and leadership expertise to Huws Gray, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team. His track record of developing teams, driving performance and leading positive cultural change speaks for itself, and makes him a fantastic addition to Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire as we continue to target growth.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GRAF UK’s new-look rainwater harvesting range maximises the use of free water
Sustainability is optimised by GRAF UK’s new-look rainwater harvesting systems. A range of award-winning rainwater harvesting systems that maximise the use of free rainwater rather than rely on mains water top-ups has been launched by GRAF UK. The specialist water management company’s AA rainwater harvesting range bucks the trend for most such systems to top up underground tanks with mains water, which means the space set aside for free rainwater is compromised by water the homeowner is already paying for. In the new GRAF UK systems, the mains water feeds directly into the plumbing rather than via the tank, so full tank capacity is preserved for rainwater. This also makes the systems compliant with the AA part of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 which demand an air gap as non-mechanical backflow protection. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to enforcement action, as they are crucial for preventing water contamination. GRAF UK’s new range is so versatile that only two products or systems are required – the standard AA Eco-Plus and the advanced AA Silentio – with the tanks sustainably manufactured from 100% recycled plastic and built to hold between 1,500 and 7,500 litres. Both systems are designed for non-potable uses throughout the property, providing an efficient and reliable supply of rainwater for toilet flushing, washing machines, garden irrigation, and general outdoor cleaning. If the stored rainwater level becomes low, the system automatically switches to mains water via an integrated cistern beneath the pump unit, ensuring an uninterrupted supply without topping up the main tank. By keeping mains water separate from the tank, the system preserves full capacity for collected rainwater, maximising overall efficiency. Rainwater is gathered from the roof and channelled through downpipes into the underground tanks which are specially designed for shallow installation and ease of access – especially useful for refurbishment/renovation projects. As the water enters the tanks, it passes through GRAF UK’s award-winning high-performance filters, ensuring stored water remains free from leaves and debris. An external pump and control unit installed within the property draws water from the tank as needed using a floating intake which ensures extraction from the cleanest layer below the water’s surface. The external pump unit incorporates a Family Type AA air gap, providing protection in line with the water regulations. The tanks’ flat, shallow profile and ability to be backfilled with gravel rather than concrete help reduce excavation depth and installation time. Free UK mainland delivery is included as standard for even greater value. Both the AA Eco-Plus and AA Silentio systems are supplied with a telescopic dome shaft and pedestrian lid, with the option to upgrade to a vehicle-loading lid for driveways or areas with traffic. In addition, theAASilentio system also comes with a reversible flow filter and a digital display which gives the property owner an accurate level of how much rainwater is left in the tank. For more information on GRAF UK’s new AA rainwater harvesting range, please go to https://aasystems.grafuk.com/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Study Inn Group achieves outstanding GSL results and fifth consecutive Gold Certified Operator status
Student accommodation owner, developer and operator, Study Inn, has achieved another year of exceptional results in the latest Global Student Living (GSL) Index. Study Inn outperformed the private halls Net Promotor score benchmark of +26, with an overall Net Promoter score of +39, and retained its prestigious Global Student Living Gold Certified Operator status for the fifth consecutive year, These results reflect Study Inn’s continued commitment to delivering premium student living experiences centred around wellbeing, hospitality, community, and service excellence. Since launching in 2009, Study Inn has differentiated itself through a hospitality-led approach to student accommodation. Residents enjoy fully equipped gyms, yoga studios, wellness spas with saunas and steam rooms, study spaces, entertainment lounges, housekeeping services including fresh towels and bedlinen, and the benefit of dedicated 24/7 onsite teams. Matt Shakespeare, Managing Director of Operations at Study Inn, commented: “What makes these results especially meaningful is that they come directly from the students themselves. Their feedback reflects the dedication, care and passion our teams bring every day to creating exceptional living experiences for our residents. We are committed to raising standards across the student accommodation sector and whilst premium facilities and cleanliness are now considered essentials, it is ultimately our people and our resident-focused culture that makes the real difference to what we provide.” The Global Student Living Index is based entirely on direct student feedback, making it one of the most respected and credible measures of student satisfaction within the accommodation sector. Across the survey, Study Inn exceeded private halls benchmarks in every featured category, including: Study Inn continues to expand its portfolio across the UK while maintaining its commitment to its brand standards of delivering market-leading accommodation, with exceptional levels of service, and resident satisfaction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Reds10 Strengthens Leadership Team with Appointment of Former Wates Director
Modular construction specialist Reds10 Group has appointed industry veteran Steve Beechey as its new Executive Chair as the company looks to accelerate growth and expand its role in delivering modern methods of construction across the public sector. Beechey will join the business in July, bringing with him more than 15 years of experience at Wates, where he most recently served as Group Public Sector Director. During his time with the contractor, he played a leading role in delivering major programmes across defence, education and justice, while also serving on the Wates Group Executive Committee for more than a decade. His appointment comes as Reds10 continues to strengthen its senior leadership team following the recent arrival of Matt Thorpe as Chief Financial Officer. The move reflects the company’s ambitions to scale its operations and further establish itself as a leading provider of off-site manufactured building solutions for public sector clients. Reds10 specialises in modern methods of construction and has built a strong reputation delivering projects across defence, education, healthcare, justice, temporary accommodation and social housing sectors. The company’s approach focuses on manufacturing buildings off-site before transporting and assembling them on location, helping to reduce programme times, improve quality and support sustainability objectives. Central to its operations is a 300,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Driffield, East Yorkshire, where building components are produced in a controlled factory environment before being installed on site. Paul Ruddick, Chief Executive of Reds10 Group, said Beechey’s extensive experience in both construction and the public sector would be invaluable as the business enters its next phase of development. He added that his leadership and strategic insight would help support the company’s ambition to industrialise construction and expand the adoption of modern building techniques. Commenting on his appointment, Beechey said he was joining the business at an exciting stage in its growth journey. He highlighted Reds10’s strong reputation for innovation and its clear ambition to transform how construction projects are delivered. As demand continues to grow for faster, more efficient and sustainable construction solutions, Reds10’s latest leadership appointment underlines its commitment to driving innovation and supporting the wider evolution of the UK construction industry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jewson signed as new Lincoln City sponsor
Builders merchant Jewson has signed a new sponsorship agreement with Lincoln City, following the club’s promotion to the Sky Bet Championship. Jewson branded pads will now adorn around 300 seats in the LNER Stadium, while the provision of six season tickets for the Branston Legends Lounge allows the merchant to provide loyal customers with the opportunity to support their local club, at a time when tickets are in high demand. The partnership also comes at an important time for Jewson Lincoln, which has recently received investment to upgrade its facilities. The shop floor and building externals have been rebranded, while the layout has been reorganised to improve customer experience. The branch’s product range has been reviewed and updated in line with customer feedback, to better align with their projects and improve stock accuracy. Additionally, three local trade experts have joined the team. Neil Bristow, Branch Manager for Jewson Lincoln, said: “Lincoln City’s journey over the last decade has been incredibly inspiring and mirrors a lot of what we’re trying to achieve here in the branch. The club has grown the right way through strong leadership, investment in young talent, real community engagement and a shared vision throughout the organisation, and that’s something that resonates strongly with us as a team. “The timing of this partnership aligns with investment into our branch and customer experience, so it feels like a natural fit at an exciting moment for both organisations, and there’s already been a real buzz among customers since the sponsorship was announced. “For us, this is about more than just branding. It’s an opportunity to strengthen relationships with customers, spend time with them socially and reward their loyalty, while supporting a club that means so much to the local community. We hope this is the start of a long-term partnership that continues to grow alongside both the club and our customer base.” Bobby Copping, Head of Commercial for Lincoln City, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Jewson on board as a Club Sponsor. They are a well-established name within the construction sector with a strong local presence in Lincoln and a national reputation for supporting the trade. “Their commitment to service and customer experience aligns strongly with our own values, and we’re pleased to be working together at such an exciting time.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals