Creation of Construction Skills Mission Board will see one hundred thousand new workers annually

Unite and the GMB, the country’s leading trade unions in the construction sector, has welcomed the government announcement today that will result in 100,000 new construction workers annually.

Thousands of people are set to benefit from on-the-job training and career opportunities in the construction sector. Unite attended and will sit on the new Construction Skills Mission Board also attended by government ministers and CEOs from across the sector. It is launching an industry commitment to recruit 100,000 more construction workers per year by the end of the Parliament.

The partnership between Jobcentres and the industry will give more people the skills they need to start fulfilling careers. Roles ranging from project managers to bricklayers will be made available to jobseekers thanks to the agreement, which will mean Jobcentres working more closely with the construction industry to offer work experience and tailored placements to meet the need of employers and people looking to start a fulfilling career.

Unite and the GMB will play a critical role in ensuring workplace health and safety and that the pay and conditions are suitable for the roles being created.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Workers are the driving force behind the government’s growth agenda and this is a step in the right direction in ensuring we have a construction workforce fit to build much needed infrastructure and housing. Unite will be working tirelessly to ensure these high-skilled jobs are well paid and on safe sites.”

Unite national officer for construction Jason Poulter added: “We are proud to represent workers voices and the pride they hold in their skills and trades on the Construction Skills Mission Board. We welcome the governments focus on a jobs focussed approach. This is the largest investment in skills for a generation and the creation of the CSMB is a clear demonstration of industry’s commitment to supporting the skilled construction workforce of tomorrow.”

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB National Officer, said:

"The Construction Skills Mission Board brings together the Government, industry and workers to help shape the future of the industry. GMB is thrilled to be part of this effort; our members and their skills will deliver the industrial strategy and energy infrastructure. It's right that workers voices are championed in this process."