Sefton Council’s major highway schemes have created opportunities for local people who face barriers to employment through social value.

As part of delivering Social Value for the major schemes like the Southport Eastern Access scheme, Balfour Beatty attended Sefton@Work and Sefton Carers Hub giving advice and talks on working in construction. This was to ensure that the major highway projects also created opportunities for local people who face barriers to employment, as well as improving Sefton’s infrastructure.

Sefton's Caring Business Charter

Balfour Beatty are a signatory for Sefton Council’s Caring Business Charter, which aims to help provide young people who have experience of the care system meaningful work opportunities.

Work opportunities 

Through visits to Sefton@Work and the Carers Hub, care experienced Phil attended and offered a two-week work experience placement with the site team in September 2025. Following this, he was offered a six-month paid placement as a Trainee Civil Engineer on the Southport Eastern Access scheme.

Philip Sharp, Trainee Civil Engineer said: “From the moment I started my work experience, they made sure I felt welcome and included. I learned a lot during my experience through a lot of hands on work with the civil engineers out on site where they always ensured everyone got a part to play so everyone could learn.

I have been really lucky to get this experience and it has opened up numerous opportunities. I can’t thank them enough for what they have done for me, I am so grateful.”

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Skills and Economy said:

“It is really important and great to see that our major transport schemes are delivering on meaningful social value, and that the community receive long-lasting benefits like helping people with their careers.”