The UK government has committed to constructing 1.5 million new homes in the coming years, prompting a significant focus on addressing the skills shortage within the construction industry. As Matthew Crucefix, senior director at Stonewater, put it, the search for enough laborers is still proving to be a scary task. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has projected the skills necessary to meet this growing demand, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions.
One of the most successful is the Veteran Self-Build Scheme. Stonewater highlights its role at the forefront of increasing the supply of socially affordable homes. Running on seven locations around the country, this program has been critical ever since its first pilot project in 2015. Frank Nelson, NEA project manager, on site with housing developers Lovell and Stonewater at a military new build site in Ludgershall, Wiltshire. He highlighted the immediate need for skilled laborers in the construction industry.
“The Homes for Veterans Scheme is an innovative pathway into construction.” – Matthew Crucefix
Under this program, veterans receive practical training by working in the field. This background shuttles them into greater skills and awareness of the industry’s requirements. Nelson observed that many participants are offered employment before completing their year-long course, indicating a strong demand for their skills. This method further combats retention crisis, since veterans are given continuous support after qualifying to enter the work place.
Over 15,000 extra workers will be needed throughout the South West to achieve the government’s ambitious housing goal. Of the 130,000 people who begin some type of construction training each year, fewer than 40,000 get a job. Laurence Stone from CITB pointed out that while training numbers are sufficient, a lack of clear pathways to employment hinders effective workforce integration.
“The core issue isn’t that we’re not training enough people, it’s that there aren’t clear enough pathways to translate their training into jobs.” – Laurence Stone
Alongside tackling skill shortages, creating sustainable careers through the Veteran Self-Build Scheme supports those who have fought for our country. Ian Bayliss, a former member of the Royal Artillery, is a profound testament to the program’s impact. After experiencing homelessness after exiting the military, he found a renewed sense of purpose through this program.
Matthew Crucefix emphasized why innovation throughout the industry is key in order to pave the way for more social affordable homes to be built. He stated, “We need to ensure we’re investing in skills and training while demonstrating what a vital industry this is.”
“Attraction and retention won’t improve without the proper investment and communications.” – Matthew Crucefix
