Willmott Dixon backs Wood Recycling initiative

Willmott Dixon attended the event and played a crucial role in supporting Jericho Foundation in its pitch for the Spark Challenge.

The Spark Challenge investment was required for Jericho to launch the Wood Recycling enterprise.

Willmott Dixon was one of six project partners selected by Spark to assist the social enterprises in their bid to win funding.

Jericho was formed in 1993 as a drop-in centre for the disadvantaged people of Balsall Heath.

The Foundation operates a number of social enterprises from its Birmingham hub, including a printing business, construction and landscaping services, on and off-site catering provisions, a contract cleaning business and a charity shop.

] The Jericho Wood Recycling scheme is based on a national franchise model from the National Community Wood Recycling Project (NCWRP) which recently completed a feasibility study that confirmed the viability of the venture.

The initiative will focus on recycling the region's old canal locks as British Waterways replaces old timbers for new.

Those joining the scheme will receive full on-the-job training and the opportunity to gain accredited woodworking or administration qualifications, which ensures they leave the foundation with a transferable skill-set and improved employment prospects.