Building skills for a greener future
As the UK accelerates towards net zero, so does the demand for green skills – but the workforce is struggling to keep up. WPS is addressing this through programmes that bring together skills training, practical experience, and real employment opportunities.
With people and communities at the heart of our work, we’re helping social housing providers navigate the energy transition while unlocking the economic potential of the green economy for local residents.
Empowering young people into employment
Launched in June 2024 by the WPS social value team, the Believe Programme supports young people aged 16–24 who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET) by offering meaningful, hands‑on work experience. A guaranteed progression route is built in – meaning that everyone who completes the programme is offered an interview for a six‑week paid internship, turning experience into real opportunity.
Since launch, three cohorts have completed the programme, supporting 20 young people. Of these, 13 have progressed into paid internships – gaining valuable experience, income and a strong foundation for future careers.
Opening doors into green jobs
WPS is committed to opening clear pathways into green careers and has sponsored 12 candidates to undertake their DEA Level 3 and 4 qualifications. By funding qualifications, this pathway will enable candidates to gain hands-on experience needed to become qualified retrofit assessors responsible for evaluating the energy efficiency of residential properties and conduct retrofit assessments under PAS2035 guidelines. This opportunity creates direct routes into employment – helping to build sustainable, future‑proof careers in the growing retrofit and energy‑efficiency sector.
Expanding access through impactful partnerships
Alongside our own initiatives, we’re proud to work with partners like Clarion Futures – the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group – to widen access to green skills even further. Through programmes such as Clarion’s Green Skills Employment Pathway, we’re helping remove financial and practical barriers so more people can access training, accreditation and long‑term employment in the sector.
One of those individuals is Reinaldo, 55, from London. With training costs of around £2,500, progressing into the field had felt out of reach. With support from WPS and Clarion Futures, Reinaldo was able to complete his qualifications, begin carrying out EPC assessments as a freelancer, and ultimately secure a permanent role – unlocking a new career and long‑term stability.
After years out of work following my back injury, I wanted a career that aligned with my values and contributed to tackling the climate crisis. The training to become a retrofit assessor was intense, but the support I received from WPS and Clarion Futures has been incredible. It’s given me the skills, experience and confidence to build a new future. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. I’d encourage anyone to explore a green career – whether they’re just starting out or looking for a change.”
Reinaldo
Retrofit Assessor
Our partnership with WPS is helping us create meaningful opportunities for residents by combining our strengths and shared commitment to social impact. Together, we’re supporting people to build confidence, develop new skills and move into sustainable, long‑term employment.
With the right support and guidance from WPS and our training partners, we can support people to take their first steps into the green economy. Reinaldo’s journey shows the value of investing in the communities we work in – helping people develop skills, access meaningful employment and play a part in creating greener, more sustainable places.”Siarah Meah
Social Value Manager – Clarion Futures
Share
