Keon Homes has announced a new partnership designed to support mental health, employability and career opportunities for young people in Wolverhampton, after becoming the latest patron of The Way Youth Zone. The Midlands-based affordable housing developer has committed funding, expertise and employee volunteering time to help make a long-term difference in the city.
As part of the partnership, Keon Homes aims to support more than 160 children and young adults each year through a programme focused on STEM learning, employability and wellbeing. The initiative will address a number of critical local challenges, including youth unemployment, high numbers of young people not in education, employment or training, limited awareness of career pathways, and growing mental health concerns. Particular emphasis will be placed on tackling stigma around wellbeing in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as construction.
Keon Homes is currently delivering hundreds of new homes in Wolverhampton through the £1bn City of Wolverhampton Council housing framework, making involvement in the city a major focus for the business. Many of the young people supported by The Way live in areas where the developer is actively building, creating a strong local connection between housing delivery and community impact.
The proposed programme will draw on Keon Homes’ construction expertise and live development sites to offer structured learning opportunities, mentoring and real-world exposure to the industry. Planned activities include site visits, mentoring schemes with members of the Keon Homes team, and construction workshops delivered at The Way Youth Zone, giving young people insight into the wide range of roles available within the sector.
Jo Mann, People, Engagement and Social Impact Partner at Keon Homes, said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the communities where it operates. She explained that Wolverhampton is home to some of Keon Homes’ largest projects and many of its employees, making the partnership particularly meaningful. By working closely with The Way, the business hopes to combine funding with practical support, knowledge sharing and volunteering to create lasting benefits.
The Way Youth Zone is a purpose-built facility for young people aged eight to 18, and up to 25 for those with additional needs. It recently marked ten years of impact in Wolverhampton, during which more than 21,000 young people have accessed its services and nearly 395,000 visits have been recorded. The centre offers a wide range of activities including sport, music and arts, helping young people build confidence, reduce anxiety and develop vital life skills.
Rob Mallett, Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Way, said the partnership with Keon Homes will be a powerful local collaboration. As a Pave the Way Patron, the developer has committed both financial support and staff involvement, with a focus on employability and mental wellbeing for boys and young men. The programme aims to reduce social isolation, improve mental health outcomes and provide clearer routes into employment within construction.
During a recent visit, Keon Homes representatives were presented with a Pave the Way Patron plaque and took part in activities at the Youth Zone to gain a deeper understanding of its work. Looking ahead, the partnership is intended to be long term, supporting The Way’s mission while helping inspire the next generation to consider careers in construction and related industries.