The Real Green Jobs Accelerator Scheme is a first-of-its-kind initiative, offering unemployed learners the opportunity to take part in six-week work experience placements focused on retrofit delivery.

Led by EN:Procure, the procurement arm of social housing consortium Efficiency North, and supported by West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the programme works in partnership with DWP Jobcentre Plus. It aims to upskill both existing construction workers and new entrants to the industry. 

The scheme is being hosted at one of Equans’ live retrofit sites in Yorkshire, where more than 270 homes are being upgraded to improve energy efficiency on behalf of Leeds City Council.

Participants will gain practical experience both on site and at Leeds College of Building, learning how to install external wall insulation (EWI). The course covers all aspects of the role, including health and safety, assessing building suitability, installation techniques and aftercare. All learners will be offered a job interview on completion, with the potential to secure employment in the sector.

Kerri White, Head of Social Value at Equans UK & Ireland, said: “We’re proud to support a scheme that delivers real benefits for the future retrofit workforce. By creating accessible pathways into green construction and providing hands-on experience, we’re helping people gain the skills needed for long-term, sustainable employment.

“This programme not only supports the UK’s ambition to improve the energy efficiency of its homes, but also ensures local communities directly benefit from the opportunities created by the transition to a low carbon future.”

Simeon Perry, Head of ESG at EN:Procure, said: “If we’re going to reach the UK target of EPC C in all social and private rented homes by 2030, we’ve got to take action to upskill the workforce. We have led this industry partnership in response to that challenge and the programme not only looks to solve the skills gap that is holding the industry back but also provides job security for local people who are trained to deliver essential services.”

The course has been developed to help address the growing demand for green skills across the industry. In West Yorkshire alone, it’s projected that around 700,000 homes require energy efficiency upgrades, while the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) projects an additional 33,000 operatives will be needed in external wall insulation by 2028.

Simeon Perry added: “We’ve worked hard with our  partners to create a scheme truly unique to the region that offers both classroom learning and practical, on-site experience. The course will give participants the required skills to go onto direct employment in EWI or progress to further education such as a National Vocational Qualification in EWI.”

The scheme has been funded through Equans and Leeds City Council’s commitment to boost skills and employability in the city,  through the EN:Procure Installers framework and with direct financial support from West Yorkshire Combined Authority. 

Working in partnership with Leeds City Council, Equans has improved the energy efficiency of more than 1,800 homes over the past five years, saving 72,000 tonnes of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere.