B4Box is a construction works and training organisation which undertakes renovation and retrofit of void properties in Manchester and surrounding areas. B4Box has a unique procurement contract with Stockport Homes, whereby the company is paid to deliver training to local residents, alongside capital works.
The company recruits learners from within a 5 mile radius and reaches people who have been out of employment for some time, paying a living wage and offering multi-skilled training and mentoring from the start. They report staff morale is higher when people have permanent jobs and can create consistent teams. Customer satisfaction is also higher, due to the same team being in their home for the duration of the works.
In January 2025, Ashden published a report on how B4Box’s ‘works and training’ approach could be replicated.
