The government has decided to make it mandatory that construction workers possess NVQs, a college qualification that requires fluent English on entry to the course.
Voices in the sector have suggested this may make it more difficult for firms to hire foreign workers, especially at a time when there is a high demand for new buildings and yet a considerable skills shortage.
Eden Facades can assure its workforce today that whatever the changes in the law, we will do everything we can to support them so they can continue to do the great work they do every day.
Changes raise questions
Automatic card renewal for Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) accreditation will be discontinued in 2025.
Many experienced workers, who currently hold cards based on employer recommendation rather than recognised qualifications, may face the decision of early retirement or investing time and money into acquiring NVQs, especially if they are self-employed.
It is estimated that around 60,000 workers in construction currently hold cards through employer recommendation, and they will be directly affected by the end of the so-called “grandfather rights.”
While the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and CSCS assure the industry that the transition will be straightforward, concerns have been raised about the feasibility of the process.
Some industry professionals question the practicality of workers with decades of experience having to go through an NVQ assessment conducted by assessors who may lack practical site experience.
These concerns highlight the potential challenges during the transition period and the importance of supporting workers required to obtain new qualifications.
We’re with our workforce
At Eden Facades, we recognise the impact of these changes on our workforce and the broader construction industry. We believe in supporting our employees through this transition and ensuring they have the necessary qualifications to thrive in their roles.
As an employer, we are committed to providing guidance, resources, and financial support to our workers who need to obtain NVQs wherever we can.
We understand that undertaking NVQ assessments can be challenging, particularly for those with limited English proficiency. Therefore, we are dedicated to offering language support and guidance to our workers, enabling them to navigate the assessment process more effectively.
We aim to facilitate a smooth transition for our employees, empowering them to meet the new industry requirements while ensuring their safety and competence on construction sites.
We are focused on promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
We embrace the diversity of our workforce and the contributions that individuals from various backgrounds bring to our projects. By fostering an inclusive culture, we create a sense of belonging and ensure all employees feel valued and supported.
As we navigate these industry changes and challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering high-quality work and exceeding customer expectations. We believe that a well-supported and skilled workforce is essential to achieving these goals.
Investing in people
At Eden Facades, we continuously explore opportunities for training, development, and mentorship, ensuring our employees have the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing industry.
By supporting our workforce through these industry changes, we demonstrate our commitment to excellence and the well-being of our employees. We understand the challenges that arise during times of transition, and we strive to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where our employees can thrive and grow.
Our approach goes beyond simply meeting the requirements of the new regulations; we aim to create a workplace that nurtures talent, promotes career development, and values the contributions of every individual.
These government changes affecting the construction industry in the United Kingdom have presented challenges and opportunities for the workforce. At Eden Facades, we commit to supporting our employees through these industry changes.
A resilient force for good
By investing in our workforce, we ensure the success of our projects and contribute to the growth and advancement of the construction industry as a whole.
Tony Hill, Managing Director at Eden Facades, said: “As we continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of construction, we remain dedicated to delivering high-quality work, exceeding customer expectations, and fostering a skilled and empowered workforce.
“Together, we will overcome the challenges of industry changes and build a brighter future for the construction industry. The very reason Eden Facades is such a successful company is our ability to grow through regulatory and legal changes towards a point where we thrive in that changed environment.
“We look forward to supporting our workforce in any way we can so they can continue to deliver the outstanding quality to clients we see on every project.”
To learn more about joining the Eden Facades team, or to chat about a specific project, contact us on 01268 744 199 or office@edenfacades.co.uk.
