A Shared Commitment to Sandwell’s Care Experienced Young People
A collaborative social value project has transformed a training flat in Sandwell, creating a safe, welcoming and practical space for care‑experienced young people preparing to move into independent living.
Delivered through partnership working between Sandwell Council, VINCI Facilities, THREE60 Building Solutions Ltd, Sandwell House Project and Sandwell Children’s Trust, the project shows the impact of local organisations working together to support young people and the wider community.
The work is being highlighted ahead of Corporate Parenting Week (29 June – 3 July) as an example of how Sandwell Council and its partners are supporting care‑experienced young people through meaningful action.
A practical investment in young people
The training flat will support 15 young people over the next year, providing a space where individuals transitioning from care can build confidence and develop essential life skills. Used by young people aged 16 to 17, the flat offers a realistic home environment where they can prepare for independent living and take part in direct work sessions focused on practical independence skills.
Following the improvements, the property now offers a warmer more comfortable setting, helping young people feel ready for the next stage of their journey.
Works included full redecoration, a new shower installation, upgraded fixtures and furnishings and significant improvements to outdoor areas. The garden was transformed from an overgrown space into a usable and welcoming environment, complete with new fencing, raised beds and planting areas.
Delivering social value through partnership
The improvements were delivered at no additional cost to Sandwell Council. VINCI Facilities and its supply‑chain partners contributed an estimated £16,869.55 in materials and labour, alongside more than a week of volunteering time.
The project began following a request from Sandwell Children’s Trust and The Sandwell House Project to refresh the assessment flat. Sandwell Council’s Social Value Team worked alongside housing officers and contract managers to bring partners together and turn social value commitments into practical support.
VINCI Facilities and THREE60 Building Solutions Ltd supported the project through their skills, materials and time, helping to deliver improvements that will have a direct impact on young people preparing for independence.
Supporting care‑experienced young people
Three60 also revitalised the garden area, creating an outdoor space that supports wellbeing and independence.
Hannah Williams‑Hubbard, House Project Lead said “The work that was carried out at the assessment flat was simply amazing. It provides a home from home for our young people and an aspirational backdrop to the next part of their journey into independence.”
Vicky Franklin, Social Value Lead, VINCI Facilities said “What truly made the biggest difference was meeting the young people in person. Hearing their stories firsthand left a lasting impact and inspired everyone involved.”
A space designed for the future
The result is a high‑quality, supportive setting that better reflects real‑life living conditions. This will help young people build confidence and stability as they prepare for adult life.
Corporate parenting in practice
Corporate Parenting Week is a reminder that improving outcomes for children in care is everyone’s responsibility. This project shows what is possible when council teams work collaboratively and contractors share the Council’s values and commitment to care‑experienced young people.
Creating lasting community impact
The project highlights how social value can go beyond contractual requirements to deliver meaningful, lasting benefits for local communities. It also shows how responsible business practice can support council priorities, helping to improve outcomes for care‑experienced young people through strong partnerships and shared commitment.