Addressing Labour Shortages, Training Provision, and the Future Skills Pipeline
This is a significant issue. New entrants want to see a credible training pathway, and without local provision, it becomes harder to attract and retain talent.
I have been engaging with several potential training providers who are open to including roofing disciplines within their curriculum. However, they must be able to demonstrate a viable business case, which depends on:
- Evidence of cohort numbers
- Confidence that employers will support apprenticeships
- Availability of suitably qualified trainers
The NFRC can assist with upskilling potential trainers/assessors, particularly those who may be:
- Experienced roofers looking to step off the tools
- Individuals who want to remain hands‑on but move into a teaching or assessing role
- Passionate advocates for the industry who want to help shape the next generation
This is a real opportunity for skilled tradespeople to transition into a new phase of their career while strengthening the sector.
How Members Can Help
To build a strong business case for new training provision and to ensure the region has the workforce it needs, I am asking members to indicate whether they are willing to:
- Take on apprentices
- Offer work experience placements
- Support school and college engagement
- Participate in careers events, site visits or taster days
Your input is essential. Without accurate data from Members, it is impossible to demonstrate demand to training providers or secure the investment needed to introduce roofing courses locally.
If you are prepared to support apprenticeships, offer placements, or engage with schools and colleges, please get in touch. Your involvement will directly influence the availability of future training and the long‑term health of our regional workforce.
Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable future for roofing across the Region.
To provide information of your commitment to the above, please contact Jason Munro: [email protected]