Details
Project 1: Monk Bridge
Location: Leeds
Brick Manufacturers: Ibstock PLC / Wienerberger Limited
Architect: Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher
Project 2: Islington Wharf
Location: Manchester
Brick Manufacturers: Forterra PLC / Michelmersh Brick Holdings PLC
Architect: Ryder Architects
About the project
Judges Comment:
"In Cara, we could see a business that cared about its people and also the communities that it worked in. It was evident from the drive of the senior leadership team, which cascaded through the business, that Cara invest in the future of their business with apprenticeships but also in how they monitor quality as part of their works."
Cara Brickwork has established itself as a reputable name in the UK construction industry, operating from offices in the North West and Yorkshire.
Their commitment to excellence is reflected in their certification to several ISO Management systems: ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 45001 for Health and Safety Management, ISO 14001 for Environmental Management. These certifications are maintained through rigorous internal audits by Managing Director, Neil Allen and Group Head of SHE, Paul Grimes, alongside annual external audits.
Cara Brickwork employs the Fieldview system to manage Quality Assurance. Developed specifically for Cara Brickwork, the digital platform captures QA requirements for fire barriers, masonry supports, and brickwork, enabling real-time access and updates. The transition to a digital system has improved efficiency and significantly reduced their environmental footprint by minimising paperwork.
Cara Brickwork’s apprenticeship programme plays a crucial role in developing a skilled, motivated workforce. They have 18 apprentices and over the past 21 years have hired over 100. 80% achieve their NVQ in bricklaying, with many working with the company long-term. Notable among them is Contracts Manager Nick Mather, who began as an apprentice 18 years ago and has progressed to his current role. Joey Allen, CEO, and Neil Allen, Managing Director, also began their careers as apprentices, underscoring our commitment to nurturing talent. They provide reviews for apprentices every 12 weeks to ensure they stay on track and address any issues promptly. This support system helps apprentices succeed and integrate smoothly into our workforce. Employees from other roles, including labourers, often seek apprenticeship opportunities with us, recognising the long-term benefits.
The organisation has seen an increased interest in bricklaying apprenticeships, but limited funding has posed challenges. Despite this, they continue to support apprentices, understanding the long-term value of skilled trades. Cara Brickwork emphasise the lasting benefits of apprenticeship programmes, offering continuous career growth.
Neil Allen, a board member of The Association of Brickwork Contractors Assessment Centre, actively engages with industry stakeholders to advance training and education in Modern Methods of Construction. They maintain close relationships with local schools and colleges, creating pathways for aspiring apprentices. Neil frequently gives talks at institutions such as Wirral Metropolitan College and City of Liverpool College, sharing his journey and inspiring students.
Cara remains dedicated to fostering the next generation of skilled workers, ensuring a steady supply of talent in the construction industry. Their commitment to training and development benefits their apprentices and enhances the overall quality and sustainability of the construction sector.
Cara Brickwork invest heavily in training, with approximately 50% of their workforce participating in programmes at any one time, including:
- Fieldview training
- EQUE2 training
- SAGE
- Mental health first aid training
- Fire marshal training
- SMSTS and SSTS training NVQ Levels 2 and 6
- Director development PG Certification
- Wellbeing training
- Scaffold inspection training
- Health and Safety
Their health and safety management system is certified to ISO 45001. Regular audits and SHE Committee meetings ensure they maintain high safety standards. Their accident frequency rate in 2023 was 0.35, maintaining a commendable record from previous years.
Sponsored by Grayson Building Products
With large stocks from reputable manufacturers, Grayson can deliver an extensive range of goods across the UK & Ireland. Grayson work in partnership with the leading manufacturers to provide expert advice to our clients. Grayson get the right products, to the right place at the right time – key for any major project to keep running on schedule.
