The Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) outlook sets out the expected demand for the industry over the next five years
The construction workforce is expected to see growth over the medium-term but continues to suffer from issues in workforce expansion.
Issues with uncertainty and cost rises will also affect activity.
Recruitment will remain a key issue
In order to meet future demand, the construction workforce outlook states that a sustained focus on recruitment, training, and supporting workers into construction jobs will be essential, and that attracting new workers and replacing existing workers leaving the industry will need collaboration between industry, stakeholders, and the government.
As it stands, too many people are leaving the sector and not enough are joining. But it is not a bleak outlook, as initiatives such as the £600m investment into construction training and the funding from the Youth Guarantee and Jobs Guarantee show that the government is willing to support the industry.
Tim Balcon, CITB CEO, said: “Our latest Construction Workforce Outlook highlights where construction skills demand is expected to grow, offering the evidence needed to guide workforce and skills planning in a period of significant opportunity and challenge.
“The construction industry is faced with balancing short-term business uncertainty while ensuring there are enough skilled workers to meet the expected demand for longer-term opportunities.
“Together, alongside government and industry stakeholders, we can ensure the construction industry is equipped to deliver for the UK’s future.”
The full outlook can be read here.
One million more workers will be needed
Writing for PBC Today in June, Angela Carney, the president of the Northern Counties Builders Federation, discussed the effect that skills shortages have on the industry and on developments, and how to fix the issue.
Angela wrote: “For Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF), the findings (of the latest Skills England workforce projection) reinforce a concern we have been raising for many years. Skills shortages remain one of the biggest barriers to growth across the North East construction sector, limiting the industry’s ability to deliver the homes, infrastructure and economic development our region needs. The fact that construction is forecast to experience the highest growth among government priority sectors only underscores the scale and urgency of the challenge.
“There is, however, reason for optimism. Skills England highlights the importance of Level 2 and Level 3 technical and vocational pathways in meeting future workforce demand. Apprenticeships remain the most effective route into construction, providing a pathway for young people while helping employers develop the skilled workforce they need.
“Encouragingly, colleges across the North East are seeing strong demand for construction courses. The issue is not a lack of interest from the next generation. The challenge lies in securing enough employers willing to provide apprenticeship opportunities and turn that enthusiasm into long-term employment.
“Many businesses, particularly SMEs, continue to face barriers when considering apprenticeships. Concerns around cost, administration and time commitments can discourage employers from making that investment.”
Read Angela’s full thoughts here.
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