Sir Robert McAlpine is amongst the first UK companies to be awarded the YOUNITED Flag award for our work to employ ex-offenders.

Launched in September 2019 by music legend Nile Rodgers and crime prevention charity, Key4Life, the award encourages companies to employ ex-offenders and give them another chance.

Senior HR Business Partner, John French, and Director of People & Infrastructure, Karen Brookes, accepted the award on behalf of the company at a recent ceremony at Mansion House in London.

Key4Life works to reduce re-offending through an innovative rehabilitation programme for young men in prison and those at risk of going to prison, saving lives by helping to break the cycle of crime.

We supported a Key4Life rehabilitation programme on one of our projects, providing two young ex-offenders with work experience and exposure to the potential career opportunities available within the construction industry.

As a result, one of these was offered employment with us working alongside the Works Manager as a general operative. The intention is to provide this individual with further employment experience with one of our supply chain partners on the project. We have also taken part in a local workshop, helping deliver mock interviews and providing feedback.

Eva Hamilton, Founder and CEO of Key4Life says: “Research shows that 50% of corporate Britain would not hire ex-offenders, and yet having a job is the crucial success factor for men with convictions. With re-offending costing the UK government £18.1 Billion a year, the YOUNITED Flag award highlights how employing ex-offenders can drive change by dispelling stereotypes and removing unfair prejudice.”

Celebrating diversity and inclusion

IWD with Kelly White

10 Mar 2025

After joining the industry by accident, Kelly White, Head of Bidding, shares how she has developed a passion for construction and become a fervent advocate for equity through our Affinity Networks.

National Inclusion Week 2024

26 Sept 2024

As we celebrate National Inclusion Week 2024, we share stories from women in construction, reflecting our commitment to creating an inclusive workplace.

International Women in Engineering Day 2024

21 Jun 2024

In celebration of International Women in Engineering Day this week, we proudly recognise the exceptional contributions of our female engineers who help drive our projects forward.

Historic milestone as ground broken at Port Talbot

17 Jul 2025

Construction of the new Electric Arc Furnace at Port Talbot begins.

Restoring Colchester’s iconic ‘Jumbo’

15 Jul 2025

Sir Robert McAlpine Special Projects has been appointed to lead the restoration of the largest surviving Victorian municipal water tower in England.

Building social value at TQEC

11 Jul 2025

With skills shortages affecting every area of the construction industry, it’s vital that young people feel involved with the projects taking place across our cities.

View all news

Championing inclusion with Key4Life