Caroline Nokes MP joins calls for improved access to construction careers at industry meeting
Local MP, Caroline Nokes joined the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) Southampton Committee to discuss skills opportunities in the construction sector. The event, which took place on 27 July 2022, focused on ways to alleviate skills shortages in construction and attract the next generation of workers to the industry.
With the South East holding the second largest share of construction output (13%) behind Greater London (21%), the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that 23,000 extra workers will be needed by 2026. Attendees at the event, who work on key projects in the Southampton area, discussed how this target can be reached and potential drivers for attracting school and college leavers.
CIOB’s Charter on Diversity and Inclusion, which has been signed by over 100 companies in the sector, was highlighted as a mechanism for change; assisting employers through practical steps to improve access to underrepresented groups, such as women, people with disabilities and those from BAME backgrounds.
Commenting on the discussion, Caroline Nokes MP, said: “I was delighted to attend CIOB’s Southampton Committee and meet members who are having a positive impact on people’s lives through key construction and infrastructure projects in the area. It’s been made clear that attracting workers continues to be a significant issue for the sector and will continue to have a negative impact through delays to vital construction and infrastructure work.
“Partnerships with professional bodies, like CIOB, will be key to improving the image of the construction sector. I am supportive of their Charter on Diversity and Inclusion which is an important step to attracting the wider talent pool that exists in our society to ensure a sustainable flow of future skills.”
