The UK is currently experiencing a significant shortfall in skilled tradespeople, which poses a serious threat to national objectives on housing development and achieving net-zero emissions. A recent report by Checkatrade highlights an urgent need for 1.3 million additional skilled workers and 350,000 apprentices over the next ten years to address governmental targets and meet the rising demand in construction, home improvement, and repair sectors.
With favourable economic trends, such as an improving economy, anticipated lower interest rates, and faster planning processes, the home improvement and repair sector is projected to expand by 40% within the next decade. However, this positive outlook is under considerable risk due to a pronounced skills gap. The problem is compounded by an ageing workforce; over a third of current workers in these fields are aged over 50, and many intend to retire over the coming decade.
To counter this trend and address impending retirements, Checkatrade’s findings indicate that the industry will need to onboard approximately 377,000 new workers. In addition to replacing those who retire, another 734,000 new employees will be required to keep up with existing demand across the home improvement, repair, and construction industries.
According to Jambu Palaniappan, Checkatrade’s CEO, the home improvement and repair industry plays an essential role not only in supporting the Government’s ambitions for improved infrastructure but also in securing and modernising the existing housing stock. Palaniappan emphasised that the potential benefits of a modern, energy-efficient housing framework are vast for both homeowners and the economy at large. However, realising this vision will remain unattainable unless the skills shortage is addressed decisively.
Andrew Evans from Capital Economics, which collaborated on the report, echoed these concerns. He pointed out that meeting government targets for housing and environmental goals will necessitate a capable construction workforce. Their research underscores the extent of the problem, indicating that 377,000 new recruits will be essential to meet the sector’s demands over the next ten years.
A separate report by City & Guilds, in partnership with the Lifelong Education Institute, urges the government to establish a comprehensive skills strategy to promote lifelong learning and economic stability. Kirstie Donnelly, CEO of City & Guilds, remarked on the opportunity to overhaul skills policy in a way that could sustain economic growth. Donnelly stressed that if the government fails to address this now, the productivity and growth issues plaguing multiple industries, including construction, may remain unresolved. She further noted that this approach is essential not only for the skills shortage but also for achieving broader government missions.
The demand for skilled tradespeople has never been greater, and addressing this shortage is crucial if the UK is to fulfil its housing and environmental objectives.
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