NFRC Regional Manager puts Roofing on the Agenda at Noteworthy Cymru Housing Conference

The speaking series, which was attended by over 250 people, brought together local authorities, housing associations, developers and the supply chain to discuss their vision for the future and how the sector will support the need of its citizens. 

Building on the initial phases of the Optimised RetroFit Programme (ORP), the conference explored how a whole house, pragmatic approach to decarbonising existing homes is essential across Wales. 

“The event started with an excellent keynote address from Jayne Bryant MS - Cabinet Secretary for Housing, Local Government & Planning. Claire clearly stated the commitment from Welsh government and the importance of the programme which will help social tenants to reduce costs and improve lives. Claire also brought a sharp focus on the importance of the programme in investing in Housing, which will help the future generations in having diverse and productive careers,” said Stuart.  

Stuart then introduced himself and spoke about NFRC, the excellent services our Members deliver, and the importance of a qualified and competent retrofit workforce.  

Stuart then chaired the following panels, delving into various challenges on the road ahead.  

Panel 1: Encouraging new entrants into the sector and the diverse careers 

• Gareth Williams – Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) 

• Abbie Marks – Cardiff Commitment Programme Manager – Cardiff Council 

• Wyn Pritchard – Director of Skills Strategy and Business Engagement – National Proficiency Tests Council (NPTC) Group 

“The questions covered the skills gap, attracting the next generation into our industries, Retention of apprentices and skills training for the needed future of housing requirements. Fortunately for me the panel were extremely knowledgeable, and it highlighted the need for collaboration from all areas, with trade associations such as the NFRC supporting CITB, and NPTC to meet current and future requirements. It also highlighted the need for long-term contracts from housing associations for SMEs to enable investment in skills and training.” 

Panel 2: Where will we be in five years? 

• Amanda Smith – Head of Learning and Education – Centre for Alternative Technology 

• Fran Richley – Operations Manager – Eden Gate 

“Fran at Eden Gate in Newport is working to end homelessness. It was inspiring to hear the message that people are homeless, not helpless. The positive support and skills training being provided is something we all need to get behind. We discussed how industry can contribute—through training, support, and opportunities to develop skills—to help break the cycle of homelessness. 

“Amanda and the team at the Centre for Alternative Technology are doing excellent work focused on developing technological skills that support the zero-carbon agenda and sustainable living. It was great to hear that this work begins with children as young as 6 to 9 years old. Maybe I can learn a thing or two myself, said Stuart. 

Panel 3: How we develop skills within the supply chain for SME’s 

• Phil Vaughan – CTO – Trustmark 

• Andrew Eldred – Chief Operating Officer – Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) 

• Nigel Donohue – Chief Executive – The Installation Assurance Authority (IAA) 

“The discussion highlighted the valuable work being undertaken by the Welsh Government, as well as the challenges currently facing the contractor and SME sectors. It also addressed the growing pressure from the UK Government around apprenticeship provision, with increased costs resulting from recent financial decisions. 

“However, there was clear agreement that collaboration, action, and coordinated partnerships—focused on addressing all the shortfalls in our sector—are the only viable way forward. It was emphasised that everyone in the room has a role to play in making decisions that not only support the Welsh region in meeting its goals but also ensure a brighter future for the next generation. 

“Accreditation bodies are proactively responding to industry needs, but they require further support from end clients—particularly within the housing sector—to ensure the stable delivery of high-quality qualifications that will underpin the success of the retrofit programme, both now and in the future,” said Stuart. 

Thanks to Martin Taylor from Housing Industry Leaders and Malcolm Davies, Decarbonisation Division Senior Programme Manager, for their collaboration on helping to bring NFRC into the event.