Andrew Brooks, Managing Director of Bewley Homes discusses the construction skills shortage and explains how Bewley Homes is committed to inspiring the next generation.

The UK housebuilding industry is facing a crisis that could significantly impact the government’s ambitious housing targets. I’m not alone in raising concerns about the industry’s labour shortage, warning that even if planning consents were granted to meet the government’s goal of 1.5 million new homes in its first term, the sector lacks the skilled and unskilled workforce to deliver this target.

There’s another growing problem within the industry that cannot be ignored: the ageing workforce. The average age of a bricklayer in this country is 52. This trend is worrying, as fewer young people are entering the construction sector, leading to a decline in available skilled workers. Without a fresh influx of talent, the industry will struggle to sustain its output, let alone increase it.

One of the most compelling reasons to consider a career in construction is the sheer number of opportunities available. From bricklaying and carpentry to plumbing and electrical work, the industry offers a broad spectrum of roles that cater to different skills and interests. With such high demand, job security is significantly higher compared to other industries facing automation or outsourcing challenges.

The shortage of skilled labour also means wages in the sector have been increasing steadily, making it a lucrative career choice. Skilled tradespeople are in such high demand that companies are offering competitive salaries, apprenticeships, and career development incentives to attract new talent. For young people looking for a stable, rewarding, and well-paying career, construction presents a viable and sustainable option.

Another advantage of working in the construction industry is the potential for career progression. Many individuals start as apprentices or skilled tradespeople and, over time, develop their expertise into supervisory or managerial roles. Beyond traditional employment, the construction sector also offers entrepreneurial opportunities. We have seen a number of subcontractors, working with Bewley Homes, who have successfully transitioned from being skilled tradespeople to running their own businesses employing a large number of people.

The road ahead

The skills shortage in construction is not an issue that can be solved overnight. Addressing it requires a multi-faceted approach, including education, training, and a shift in perception regarding careers in the industry. Bewley Homes is committed to playing its part by collaborating with schools and colleges and encouraging more young people to consider housebuilding as a viable and rewarding career path.

By showcasing the opportunities available and supporting career development, the industry can attract a new generation of skilled workers, ensuring that the UK can meet its ambitious housing targets and sustain growth in the years to come.

Since 1991, Bewley Homes has been designing and building beautiful, highquality homes in some of the most desirable locations across the south of England, creating stunning developments which in turn form exciting new communities.

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Bewley Homes is championing ‘Women in Construction Week’ (2 March to 8 March) by continuing its year-round engagement program with primary schools, secondary schools, and six form colleges. The initiative aims to introduce young girls to the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available in the construction industry.

The initiative will feature school assembly talks, site visits, and work experience opportunities at Bewley’s headquarters in Tadley, offering insights into the diverse roles involved in building new homes and communities.

Bewley staff have recently visited Benson Primary School which is just a short distance from its latest new housing development in the village and talked about the wide range of roles in housebuilding including sales and marketing, ecological, interior design, customer service, commercial, technical, land, finance, HR, IT as well as the more site-based jobs.

Andrew Brooks, Managing Director of Bewley Homes, is keen the campaign reaches out to all ages. He said: “We are looking to build on from what we achieved last year with a wider remit to reach out to older children as well as younger ones whose parents or relatives might be in the industry.

“Women in Construction Week provides an ideal platform to inspire the next generation of female talent. Bewley has always recognised the importance of breaking down stereotypes and fostering an inclusive environment within the construction industry.”

Andrew added: “There is a huge variety of positions and roles that all housebuilders need and that’s the exciting message. The industry has to find a way of grabbing the attention of younger children before they decide on a different career path that might not suit them as much.

“We are now attracting female talent in all areas of our industry and it’s crucial to keep pushing out the message about the wide range of roles on offer in housebuilding. It really can be a fulfilling career for the right person – both male and female. Our campaign has been designed to help inspire a future generation of female professionals in the construction industry.”

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