Lovell welcomes Social Value Apprentice
Leading partnerships developer Lovell has welcomed a new Social Value Apprentice to its South Wales team after they completed a successful work experience placement through Newport Youth Academy, reinforcing its commitment to creating positive, lasting impact in local communities.
Amber Hone
Amber Hone, 18, from Newport, has secured the role after impressing during a six-month work experience placement with the Lovell Social Value team.
Amber has now officially joined Lovell and is supporting delivery of the Ringland Regeneration development alongside partners Hedyn. She has also begun a two-year Business Administration Level 2 Apprenticeship with Cardiff and Vale College, combining hands-on experience with structured learning. The opportunity forms part of Lovell’s commitment to delivering social value through the Ringland project by helping local young people access employment and career opportunities.
Originally from Baneswell and now living west of the River Usk in Newport, Amber first joined Lovell in October 2025 through Newport Youth Academy. The Newport Youth Academy (NYA) is a Welsh Government-funded programme that supports young people in Newport to build workplace skills, gain qualifications and secure apprenticeships or employment. During her placement, she gained an insight into the wide range of roles within the construction industry and the importance of supporting communities alongside developments.
Amber said:
“The more time I spent with the team, the more I understood how important it is to support communities where Lovell is building. I never imagined myself working in construction. In fact, I’m writing this in a site office, which is something I never thought I’d do.”
The apprenticeship opportunity came as a surprise to Amber, who had already set her sights on a future with Lovell before the role became available.
She added:
“I love how passionate the company is about its goals and how the Social Value team works together, they’re like a family. I already felt part of that family before I was offered the apprenticeship.”
As part of her new role, Amber will support a range of community-focused initiatives, alongside completing her qualification. Her apprenticeship will follow an 80:20 structure, with dedicated time for study alongside practical experience developing key administrative and organisational skills.
Thanks to her placement, Amber has already been involved in a variety of impactful projects. This has included supporting preparations for her peers from Newport Youth Academy to visit to the Ringland Regeneration development, which is being delivered for housing association Hedyn. Here, Amber helped organise appropriate PPE and put together promotional packs with Lovell-branded stationery and drink flasks.
Amber also played a role in the developer’s community Christmas event for older residents, delivered in partnership with Business in the Community, Hedyn, The Celtic Collection and Newport Youth Academy. The event provided 120 festive meals, entertainment and companionship for those at risk of isolation over Christmas.
Amber said:
“I’ve enjoyed learning about all the different ways Lovell supports local communities, especially schools. We’ve been working closely with Ringland Primary School and our supply chain to transform a shipping container into a space for their Healthy Eating Project, as well as into a safe, quiet space for pupils.”
Looking ahead, Amber is focused on developing her skills and building a long-term career with Lovell.
She added:
“No two days are the same, which I really enjoy. I’ve been able to get involved in so many different projects, and it’s helped build my confidence, communication and teamwork skills. My immediate goal is to do well on this course and keep learning from the team around me.
“I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. If you’re given the opportunity, apprenticeships are a fantastic way to get your foot in the door.”
Luke Stokes, Head of Development Delivery at Hedyn, said:
“At Hedyn, we’re committed to ensuring our developments create lasting benefits for local communities. Amber’s apprenticeship demonstrates how investment in regeneration can open doors for young people and help them build successful careers.
“We’re proud to see the positive difference our partnership with Lovell and Newport Youth Academy is making for young people in Ringland and the wider community.”
Gemma Clissett, Regional Partnerships Director at Lovell, said:
“Amber has been a fantastic addition to the Social Value team since joining us on placement, and we’re delighted to welcome her into the business as an apprentice.
“At Lovell, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for local people and supporting young talent into meaningful careers. Amber’s journey is a brilliant example of how work experience and apprenticeships can help open doors, and we’re looking forward to supporting her as she continues to learn, develop and build her career with us.”
Lovell continues to invest in early careers through apprenticeships and work placements, helping to support young people into employment while delivering meaningful social value in the communities it serves.
The Ringland Regeneration project is a major transformation scheme being delivered by Lovell for housing association Hedyn, in partnership with Newport City Council, Cardiff Capital Region and Welsh Government. The £47 million development will deliver 158 new homes and a relocated shopping centre, helping to revitalise the local area.
To find out more about careers with Lovell, visit https://corporate.lovell.co.
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