Skills Shortage

February 8, 2023

The construction industry in the UK is still facing a significant skills shortage, which is impacting the growth and development of the sector. This shortage is affecting both skilled tradespeople and professionals, such as architects and engineers.

One of the main reasons for the skills shortage is an aging workforce. Many skilled tradespeople and professionals in the construction industry are nearing retirement age, and there are not enough young people entering the industry to replace them. This is partly due to a lack of awareness about the opportunities available in the construction industry, as well as a lack of training and apprenticeship programs.

Another contributing factor is the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and now, the current cost of living crisis. Many construction companies have had to reduce their workforce or delay projects, which has made it difficult for them to attract and retain skilled staff. Additionally, the pandemic caused disruptions to the supply chain that is still impacting the delivery of materials and equipment.

To address the skills shortage in the construction industry, the government and industry leaders need to take action. This could include increasing funding for apprenticeship and training programs, as well as promoting the construction industry as a viable and rewarding career choice. Additionally, the industry needs to adapt to new technologies and processes, such as prefabrication and automation, to increase efficiency and productivity.

Overall, the skills shortage in the UK construction industry is a significant concern that needs to be addressed in order to ensure the continued growth and development of the sector. With the right approach and investment, the industry can attract and retain the skilled workforce it needs to meet the demands of the future.

SHARE ARTICLE

Take the next step

If you are a business looking to for your next hire, a candidate looking for a new opportunity or just want industry information, get in touch.

READ MORE ARTICLES

From Brick to Timber: What the Shift in Materials Means for Your Workforce

by Jamie Trevett • 18 June 2025
Timber’s not a trend; it’s a response to a broken system. Brick shortages, carbon pressure, and the need to build faster have forced contractors to adapt, whether they’re ready or not. In this blog, Jamie Trevett unpacks what’s driving the shift across the UK and US, the real implications for recruitment, and why ignoring it could cost your firm the jobs you're bidding for in 2025.

The Price of Delay: Why Skilled Labour Shortages Are Driving Tender Costs Up

by Jamie Trevett • 12 June 2025
Skilled trades shortages aren’t just slowing projects. They’re inflating costs, damaging margins, and losing bids before ground is even broken. In this blog, Jamie Trevett lays out how labour gaps are hitting contractors in both the UK and US, why they’re making tenders harder to win, and how smart firms are solving it before the first hire is even made.

The Mid-Sized Builder Comeback: Why SMEs Are Set to Lead in 2025

by Jamie Trevett • 5 June 2025
Big-name contractors are stalling. Smaller firms? They’re stepping up. In both the UK and US, SME builders are winning more tenders and leading more sites but only if they’ve got the crew to back it up. In this blog, Jamie breaks down what’s shifting, why small doesn’t mean limited, and how your labour plan will make or break your 2025.
Search More News