JLCT history

Caldew House

James Laing, the grandfather of Sir John Laing, built Caldew House at Sebergham in Cumbria.

This was the first house built by the Laing family. Today the house is owned by JLCT and leased to Gateshead Carers. People with caring responsibilities from the Gateshead area visit Caldew House for much needed respite holidays.

Sir John Laing born

Sir John Laing was born. He would go on to turn the Cumbrian family firm into one of Britain’s biggest ever construction companies.

Move to London

The John Laing & Sons construction company moved its HQ to new offices in Mill Hill. JLCT is still based at the same site.

Laing Benevolent

For 30 years, the Laing Benevolent Fund provided ex gratia support for John Laing employees, retirees and their relatives. During this time JL was one of the first companies to introduce paid holiday for hourly paid staff

Charitable Trust formed

The Laing Charitable Trust was formed. About this time the Company finished rebuilding Coventry Cathedral, for which Sir John refused to take any profit.

Trusts merg

The Laing Charitable Trust and the Laing Benevolent Fund merged together and expanded to provide more general charitable support. The Trust’s name has now changed to the John Laing Charitable Trust.

Fundraising ethos

The John Laing Charitable Trust was an integral part of the John Laing company, which at its height employed around 18,000 people on payroll and another 18,000 contract staff. Helping others was part of the John Laing company culture including significant employee fundraising and volunteering activities. Staff helped raise £626,441 handed over to the NSPCC and RSSPCC (Scotland) for its centenary year in 1985, including a boost from the Trust. Pictured is former JLCT Chair, Sir Martin Laing, drawing the winning raffle ticket at one of many events organised by staff.

Company change

The construction business of John Laing was sold, leaving the Investment Arm, which is now a global investor in infrastructure. JLCT continued to support former John Laing construction staff and retirees after the building arm was sold off. It also continued support for many worthy causes, helping tens of thousands of people over the years.

Connecting for Communities

Although no longer connected with John Laing PLC, JLCT still works with them helping people and communities connected with the company’s work at home and abroad; such as the Stars Foundation in Australia (pictured)