Jamie Hailstone 17 August 2015

Councils issue skills crisis warning

Councils have warned that a growing skills crisis in the construction industry could undermine government plans to build more affordable homes.

According to new research by the Local Government Association (LGA), the number of people gaining the necessary qualifications to work is falling while the demand for workers increases.

The LGA estimates there were 58% fewer completed construction apprenticeships last year than in 2009 and has called on the Government to work with councils and the construction industry to develop a Skills to Build strategy to tackle the issue.

‘If we are to see the homes desperately needed across the country built and jobs and apprenticeships created, councils must be given a leading role,’ said chair of the LGA’s housing board, Cllr Peter Box.

‘Skills demand will always vary significantly across the country.

'For example, the North West is desperate for bricklayers while the West Midlands has a higher demand for wood trades and interior fitters.’

Glasgow City Council is also doing its bit to help homeowners after approving a new mortgage scheme.

The two-year pilot scheme will see the council and the Glasgow Credit Union lend up to £4m in mortgages worth 100% of the value of the property.

‘This is a fantastic scheme, giving people in Glasgow the chance to own their home when otherwise they could not,’ said council leader, Cllr Gordon Matheson.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner