SUEZ initiative opens doors for Devon care leavers
The initiative, held at the Pinbrook Road Household Waste Recycling Centre operated by SUEZ on behalf of Devon County Council, brought together local young adults aged 18–25 who have left the care system or are currently unemployed and not in education or training. This event held in October last year, is just one of many employability skills events delivered by SUEZ last year, with further work placements, career events and behind the scenes tours planned for 2026 to support young and long term unemployed people in Devon
The day offered participants a rare chance to explore workplace opportunities in a supportive environment tailored to their needs.
They heard directly from SUEZ employees about their personal career journeys and the range of roles available in the waste and recycling sector.
They also took part in site tours and mock interviews - practical experiences designed to boost confidence and prepare them for real world recruitment. Importantly, the event opened the door for participants to apply for live vacancies within SUEZ.
The initiative builds on SUEZ’s ongoing involvement in the national Care Leaver Covenant, created as part of the Government’s Keep on Caring policy to help young people leaving care succeed in the world of work.
SUEZ says supporting care leavers is a key part of its commitment to social mobility and inclusive recruitment.
Emily Bussey, Recruitment Manager for Social Mobility and Inclusion at SUEZ, said: “It was a real pleasure to work with the group, showcasing what SUEZ has to offer and helping them consider career paths they may not have thought about before. By collaborating with DWP, we aim to create meaningful opportunities that will have a lasting impact and potentially lead to employment.”
Rob Sanders, Regional Manager at SUEZ, added: “I’m really proud of the support we’ve been able to give these young adults, and I look forward to providing similar opportunities throughout 2026.”
Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Waste Services, welcomed the programme, saying: “Corporate parenting is rightly a high priority for Devon County Council. I’m delighted that our HWRC contractor, SUEZ, is engaging with care leavers and other young people to offer employment opportunities.”