The Hudson Foundation has continued the proud legacy of giving back established by late founder and former chairman Dave Jackson with a year of positive impact and opportunities for young people.

Launched in 2024, the foundation has taken on Hudson’s long-standing apprenticeship scheme which has sponsored 312 trade apprenticeships recruited by small and micro construction firms. The scheme reflected Mr Jackson's belief that apprenticeships provide "the most solid of starts for life as an entrepreneur”.

Mr Jackson, who passed away in August 2025 at the age of 70, started his career as a 17-year-old apprentice draughtsman in Leeds before establishing Hudson in 1996. He said: “When you get an apprenticeship, you gain some experience. And when you start working as a fully qualified tradesperson, you just don't know where a career can take you.”

The foundation also sponsors the Youth Development Officer and Head Coach at Bridlington Rugby Union FC, where junior playing membership has grown from 10 to more than 200. 

The foundation has funded Remarkable Arts to work with more than 2,500 young people, ensuring access to the arts for all children, irrespective of their background, free of charge.

Mark Howley, director of Remarkable Arts said: “We couldn't find the words to express our gratitude to Dave, who has done so much for so many over so many years. So, we asked some of the people who benefited from his generosity to give us 2 words – a heartfelt thank you.”

The foundation also provides financial support to families in times of need such as when an operative engaged by Hudson is seriously injured or loses their life at work. We make donations to their loved ones.

Stuart Sanderson, director at Hudson, said: “Dave created a culture of giving back that continues through the foundation. His belief in apprenticeships as a pathway to entrepreneurship remains at the heart of what we do.”

David and his wife and business partner Lesley Jackson came from humble beginnings in Bridlington, enabling them to “give something back" to the local community and wider industry. The family's Freeman 1st Foundation continues supporting young people from working-class backgrounds in Yorkshire pursuing excellence in sports, arts, business or academia.

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