Strategic Resourcing has released a paper warning that the rate of workers ‘ageing-out’ of the industry is far outpacing that of younger workers entering it
The paper describes the ageing UK construction workforce as a “time bomb,” as there are 20% more workers aged 55 or over than workers under 25 in main contractor firms.
The paper is based on the results of a survey across 1,000 members of the public, construction workers, and 28 UK contractors.
There are misconceptions about construction careers
While the skills gap is a major and well-known issue within the industry, only 31% of the surveyed public were aware of it. Coupled with the 84% who agreed that the construction sector is important to the economy, the stats highlight that although the public understands the sector’s importance, they are unaware of the issues preventing the sector from booming.
This is further highlighted by members of the public, who view construction jobs as low-paid, manual labour. 72% of the public stated that the physically demanding nature of the job is preventing people from entering the industry, and 60% feel that a wider range of job opportunities would attract people to the industry.
As a result, Strategic Resourcing is calling for more initiatives to be launched aimed at attracting and retaining young talent, as well as gender and diversity programmes to widen the talent pool. Additionally, educational reforms are proposed to connect schools to the industry, and a central digital repository is recommended for apprentices, graduates, and students.
Robbie Blackhurst, founder of Strategic Resourcing and Black Capital Group, said:
“The gulf between public perception and the reality of careers in our industry is vast. Too many people still see construction as low paid, hard hats and bricks, when in reality it offers rewarding, skilled, and well-compensated careers. To bridge the skills gap, we need everyone in the supply chain – from clients to contractors and all partners in between to collaborate. By breaking down outdated perceptions, promoting diversity, and showcasing the wide range of opportunities available, we can attract the talent the sector desperately needs and ensure the UK meets its housing and infrastructure goals.”
The full report is available here.
Younger people are less likely to encourage a construction career
Earlier this month, the Federation of Master Builders released results of a survey into stigma against the construction profession among younger and older parents.
The results found that people aged 16-21 were the least supportive towards the idea of encouraging their children or hypothetical children into a construction career.
Chris Carr, national president of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), said: “It’s striking that the parents or potential parents most recently out of education themselves are the least likely to back a trade career – but those in their late twenties, thirties and forties, who have experienced the reality of student debt and insecure jobs, are the most supportive. That tells us we’ve got a serious perception gap to close when it comes to the opportunities available in construction.
“Construction offers young people a stable, rewarding and well-paid career path without the burden of student loans. It’s also a brilliant path for those that are entrepreneurial, as you can establish your own businesses and turnover a significant sum – with FMB members averaging £1m and they range from sole traders to much needed house builders. With the country needing 61,000 new workers each year to meet housing targets, there has never been a better moment to join the trades.”
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