Actis, an insulation specialist, has welcomed the UK government's confirmation of a £625 million investment aimed at training 60,000 construction workers. This funding is crucial for achieving the ambitious target of building 1.5 million new homes during the current parliamentary term.
The construction industry has faced challenges due to a shortage of skilled workers. A recent report from Checkatrade highlighted the need for an additional 1.3 million skilled workers and 350,000 apprentices in the UK. Actis has been proactive in promoting careers in construction through its youth outreach programs, emphasizing the importance of attracting new talent to the sector.
Mark Cooper, Actis's UK and Ireland sales director, stressed that while the investment in training is essential, it is only one part of a broader strategy needed to meet housing targets. He pointed out that issues such as planning reform, land availability, affordability, infrastructure, and local sentiment also play significant roles in the housing crisis.
The funding allocation includes £100 million for establishing ten new technical excellence colleges and £165 million to expand construction courses at existing colleges. Additionally, £100 million will support Skills Bootcamps, which provide training for new recruits and those looking to upskill. A £40 million investment will launch foundation apprenticeships this summer, while £20 million will foster partnerships between construction colleges and industry to enhance the teaching workforce. Employers will also receive £2,000 for each apprentice they recruit and train.
Cooper believes that offsite construction methods will significantly contribute to the housing supply. These homes can be built up to 30% faster than traditional methods, allowing developers to deliver housing more efficiently. Offsite construction also enhances quality control, as essential elements like wiring and plumbing are completed in a controlled environment.
Actis's Hybrid and Eolis HC systems are gaining popularity for their thermal efficiency and ease of installation. These systems can reduce installation time by 25% to 50% compared to traditional methods, with on-site build times ranging from seven to twelve days.
In addition to its outreach initiatives, Actis is committed to upskilling current construction professionals. The company offers free RIBA-approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses, such as "Tomorrow’s Insulation Solutions for Future Homes Standards" and "Addressing the Performance Gap with Reflective Insulation." These resources provide valuable insights for architects, specifiers, building control officers, and builders.
Overall, the investment in training and the focus on offsite construction methods are seen as vital steps toward addressing the UK's housing shortage while ensuring that new homes meet high standards of thermal efficiency and quality.
