LEADING UK timber supplier Premier Forest Products has been applauded by Wales’ First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth for its initiative which supports care-experienced young people.
Earlier this year, Premier Forest became the first private sector company to sign the Welsh Government’s Corporate Parenting Charter following the success of its Corporate Parenting Programme. The programme began as a local pilot in Newport and has since supported young people across areas including finance, operations, logistics and manufacturing. For many participants, it is their first experience of a paid workplace and the chance to build relationships, learn new skills and develop confidence. Each young person is matched with a mentor within the company and receives tailored support throughout their placement. Several participants have already moved on into employment, education or further training.
Jayne Bryant, Member of the Senedd for the Casnewydd Islwyn constituency, within which Premier Forest’s headquarters is located, raised the work of the company in the Senedd. She said: “Terry Edgell, chief executive officer of Premier Forest Products, is clear that commercial success comes with social responsibility, and I’ve seen and heard first hand what a difference this makes to young people, the company and also the workforce.”
First Minister, Rhun Ap Iorwerth, responded with: “Congratulations to Terry and the team at Premier Forest Products, it does take good employers to show the way, so my gratitude is genuine to the team there in Newport.”
Terry Edgell, CEO and co-founder (pictured) said: “Many care-experienced young people have had to overcome challenges that most of us can’t imagine. What we can offer is a chance to feel part of a team, to learn, to be supported and to see a future for themselves in work. The recognition from Rhun ap Iorwerth means a great deal to everyone involved, especially the young people who have taken that first step through our doors. We hope this encourages other employers to think about how they can open up opportunities and provide the kind of support that can make a lasting difference.”
See page 20 of our August/September 2026 issue on our Back Issues page.
