According to a new report from the Federation of Master Builders, more than two-thirds of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers, which is one of the key trades in the building industry.
It is believed within the industry that the shortfall could be 100,000 workers across bricklayers, carpenters and joiners and electricians.
As a result, bricklayers in London and the southeast are now demanding pay in excess of £60,000 a year. Two-thirds of businesses in the industry are preparing for wages to rise over the next six months.
In its quarterly State of Trade Survey, the federation found that more than two-thirds of smaller construction companies were struggling to hire bricklayers and that 63 percent were struggling to hire carpenters and joiners.
Brian Berry, chief executive of the federation, said that the construction trade had to be taken into account during Brexit talks. “The government must take account of the worsening construction skills shortage with Brexit looming large on the horizon,” he said.
The construction industry is one of our most important members here at the Credit Protection Association. However, it is also our most vulnerable, with unreliable retention regulations, the Carillion collapse, and the skills gap marring the industry. The industry was also heavily hit by Brexit with high numbers of skilled EU workers returning overseas. All business owners and contractors should concentrate on the current EU staff members, ensuring you are both prepared for whatever the Brexit deadline will bring. CPA also recommends you begin training schemes to enhance the skills of current staff. If you can’t find a bricklayer, offer training schemes to other employees who might want to try a new role.
If your business is struggling with the strain, please do not hesitate to contact CPA to free up cash flow. This will give you a little room for manoeuvre until employment picks up. Our dedicated team can chase those late payers or retention payments and get your business thriving again. Contact us by the details below!