Pave-Aways Ltd launches fund to boost employment prospects in Wellington
Shropshire construction company Pave-Aways Ltd has set up a new community grant fund in partnership with Shropshire Community Foundation to help boost employment prospects for people in Wellington.
Pave-Aways is currently working with Telford & Wrekin Council to refurbish several historic buildings in Wellington town centre.
It has now launched a targeted grant scheme with an initial investment of £15,000 for organisations which help young people and adults from the town find employment.
The grants will be given to support young people who are not in employment, education or training – NEETs – and also hard-to-employ adults across Wellington.
Managing Director at Pave-Aways Ltd Steven Owen said that by channelling funds to grassroots organisations, the initiative would empower people to build confidence, develop vital skills, and move toward sustainable employment.
“Supporting the communities where we live and work has always been at the heart of what we do. This fund is a natural extension of our commitment to Telford and to Wellington in particular. It’s a way for us to give back with purpose, creating real, long-term impact beyond the projects we deliver,” he said.
The fund will award grants of between £500 and £2,500 to voluntary and community organisations delivering innovative and impactful employability projects. These could include sports-led development for NEET youth, training programmes, mentoring, and initiatives focused on long-term employment outcomes.
Pave-Aways Ltd is currently playing a significant role in the transformation of Wellington town centre through the refurbishment of historic buildings that honour the town’s heritage.
Recent projects include the ongoing restoration of the iconic Wellington Market and the former YMCA building in Walker Street.
Sonia Roberts of Shropshire Community Foundation explained that Wellington faced significant economic challenges, with high unemployment and one of the highest NEET rates in the region.
“Deprivation, poor transport links, and low skills continue to marginalise many residents while local services are stretched, and the need for fresh, focused support has never been greater.
“We are proud to be working alongside Pave-Aways Ltd to support Wellington organisations who are giving young people and adults the very best chance to find employment,” she said.
Grant applications open on May 19 and can be accessed through Shropshire Community Foundation website https://www.shropshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk/open-grants/ with priority given to projects supporting disadvantaged or marginalised groups, including those from low-income or ethnic minority backgrounds.
