News
95% of SME home builders say apprenticeships are essential, finds HBF
The research showed that although micro businesses make up around 80% of the construction industry, less than 16% currently employ apprentices.
Construction
News
East Sussex College to launch roofing apprenticeship to close skills gap
Its Level 2 Roofer Apprenticeship will launch in September 2026, aiming to help tackle the shortage of skilled roofers in the area.
Organisational & Employee Development
How the structural timber industry is helping deliver the construction workplace of the future
Andrew Orriss, CEO of the Structural Timber Association, discusses how the UK’s structural timber industry is playing a pivotal role in shaping the construction workplace of the future.
News
North Ayrshire Council launches Future Trades Programme
The aim is to address local skills shortages in construction and boost job prospects for young people.
News
London’s Build Academy welcomes Minister for Industry to address construction skills shortage
The scheme – set up by the CITB, FMB, and Shooters Hill Sixth Form College – aims to tackle skills shortages in RMI, including green skills and retrofit.
News
First national standard for women’s safety on construction sites launched
The Construction for Women: National Site Standard for Female Operatives is the first governance-led UK framework to set out minimum expectations for how women should be supported.
News
FMB calls for clarity on Scottish construction sector after Budget statement
Gordon Nelson, director at FMB Scotland, said: “With a shortfall of 100,000 homes and ambitious net zero targets, we urgently need to boost our building industry."
Education & Training
FMB calls for increased mentoring to tackle construction skills shortage
Brian Berry said: “Creating opportunities for experienced tradespeople to mentor others is essential for the future of construction.”
News
FMB backs MPs urgent call for retrofit skills plan
The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee warned the Government would miss its 2030 and 2050 targets without urgent action on the skills gap.
Employee Relations
Orbit Homes hosts mental health awareness events for construction workers
Workers gathered at Levett View in Hastings, Micklewell Park in Daventry and Mill View in Dereham for sessions aimed at encouraging open conversations about wellbeing.
News
Rising health claims signal strain on construction workforce – Westfield Health
Figures showed health cash plan claims from construction workers rose by 6% in the past year.
Organisational & Employee Development
Equans secures funding from CITB to boost construction skills and productivity
The funding will support a new digital learning programme, developed with Tribuco, that aims to improve build quality and close the skills gap.