A new work experience programme from Karbon Foundation is helping people discover the wide range of career opportunities available in the housing sector while developing valuable skills for the future.
Karbon Foundation, the charitable arm of housing association Karbon Homes, has launched Step into Karbon, a week-long programme designed to give participants a meaningful insight into housing and the diverse roles that help communities thrive.
As well as introducing participants to the sector, the programme focuses on building practical and employability skills, helping people gain confidence and take positive steps towards their future career goals.
"Before I started working for a housing association, I had no idea just how many different jobs, career opportunities and specialist teams existed within the sector," said Graeme Welsh, Employment and Skills Team Advisor at Karbon Homes.
"The idea behind Step into Karbon was to create an opportunity for people to learn more about housing and explore a sector that they may not have previously considered as a potential career path.
"We didn't have a formal work experience programme in place and we wanted to offer something more structured and group based, creating a supportive environment for people to learn about working in the housing sector and discovering the range of jobs available."
Throughout the week, participants will meet colleagues from a range of teams across Karbon, including Sales and Marketing, Planned Investment, Health and Safety, and more. They will have the chance to learn about different roles and choose the departments that interest them most, before spending time job-shadowing colleagues and gaining hands-on experience.
"Often with traditional work experience, you're placed wherever an opportunity is available," Graeme added. "Step into Karbon gives people the freedom to explore the areas that align with their interests and career ambitions or even discover a role they hadn't considered before."
To ensure participants get the most from the experience, the programme has been designed to be welcoming, supportive and practical. Karbon's Employment and Skills Team will provide guidance throughout the week, including support with CV writing, application forms and interview preparation. Recruitment company Sellick Partnership will also contribute their expertise to help participants develop the skills employers are looking for.
"Step into Karbon is different as it really immerses the individual into the organisation," said Chrissie from Sellick Partnership. "It also backs that up with interview skills and CV and cover letter writing to give them the opportunity to progress in their career."
"We want people to leave with a clear pathway to build upon, whether that's developing employability skills, improving their confidence or gaining practical experience," said Jennifer.
Step into Karbon participant Alison from Stanley, County Durham has found the experience very beneficial:
"I was nervous at first, but everyone has been brilliant and so friendly. We've all helped and supported each other.
"Applications have changed so much since I last completed one, they look very complicated. Step into Karbon simplified things for me. The hints and tips we've received from the Employment and Skills Team have been ideal. It's so much easier when you have the right techniques."
Ronny from Lanchester decided to take part after being out of work for quite a long time:
"I've been a single parent for 20 years bringing up 3 children since they were babies. I wanted to do something for myself,
"It’s boosted my confidence quite a bit. Having that time for myself and contributing to ideas such as working on a marketing plan has been fantastic. The support has been amazing – everybody listens to you and takes an interest in what you want to do. I think it’s perfect."
The pilot Step into Karbon programme took place from 28 September to 3 October 2026.
To find out more about the employment support we offer, visit our Employment and Skills page.
A new work experience programme from Karbon Foundation is helping people discover the wide range of career opportunities available in the housing sector while developing valuable skills for the future.
Karbon Foundation, the charitable arm of housing association Karbon Homes, has launched Step into Karbon, a week-long programme designed to give participants a meaningful insight into housing and the diverse roles that help communities thrive.
As well as introducing participants to the sector, the programme focuses on building practical and employability skills, helping people gain confidence and take positive steps towards their future career goals.
"Before I started working for a housing association, I had no idea just how many different jobs, career opportunities and specialist teams existed within the sector," said Graeme Welsh, Employment and Skills Team Advisor at Karbon Homes.
"The idea behind Step into Karbon was to create an opportunity for people to learn more about housing and explore a sector that they may not have previously considered as a potential career path.
"We didn't have a formal work experience programme in place and we wanted to offer something more structured and group based, creating a supportive environment for people to learn about working in the housing sector and discovering the range of jobs available."
Throughout the week, participants will meet colleagues from a range of teams across Karbon, including Sales and Marketing, Planned Investment, Health and Safety, and more. They will have the chance to learn about different roles and choose the departments that interest them most, before spending time job-shadowing colleagues and gaining hands-on experience.
"Often with traditional work experience, you're placed wherever an opportunity is available," Graeme added. "Step into Karbon gives people the freedom to explore the areas that align with their interests and career ambitions or even discover a role they hadn't considered before."
To ensure participants get the most from the experience, the programme has been designed to be welcoming, supportive and practical. Karbon's Employment and Skills Team will provide guidance throughout the week, including support with CV writing, application forms and interview preparation. Recruitment company Sellick Partnership will also contribute their expertise to help participants develop the skills employers are looking for.
"Step into Karbon is different as it really immerses the individual into the organisation," said Chrissie from Sellick Partnership. "It also backs that up with interview skills and CV and cover letter writing to give them the opportunity to progress in their career."
"We want people to leave with a clear pathway to build upon, whether that's developing employability skills, improving their confidence or gaining practical experience," said Jennifer.
Step into Karbon participant Alison from Stanley, County Durham has found the experience very beneficial:
"I was nervous at first, but everyone has been brilliant and so friendly. We've all helped and supported each other.
"Applications have changed so much since I last completed one, they look very complicated. Step into Karbon simplified things for me. The hints and tips we've received from the Employment and Skills Team have been ideal. It's so much easier when you have the right techniques."
Ronny from Lanchester decided to take part after being out of work for quite a long time:
"I've been a single parent for 20 years bringing up 3 children since they were babies. I wanted to do something for myself,
"It’s boosted my confidence quite a bit. Having that time for myself and contributing to ideas such as working on a marketing plan has been fantastic. The support has been amazing – everybody listens to you and takes an interest in what you want to do. I think it’s perfect."
The pilot Step into Karbon programme took place from 28 September to 3 October 2026.
To find out more about the employment support we offer, visit our Employment and Skills page.
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