In the first initiative of its kind in Norwich, and one of very few nation-wide, Cotman Housing Association gave disadvantaged young people the opportunity to gain a formally recognised building qualification, whilst helping to build 14 homes in which they subsequently had the opportunity to live.

The Association worked in conjunction with the Young Builders Trust, Norwich City College, the Children's Society and a local building contractor on this innovative project.

Eight of the Young Builders who started work on the scheme achieved their NVQ Level 2 in carpentry and joinery, and moved into the new homes they had helped build.
Our pride in the project, which gave employment, training and housing opportunities to disadvantaged young people, was complete when one of the young men working on the scheme was named as Young Builder of the Year at the Young Builders Conference in October 2006.