6th March 2025
Construction in the UK is suffering from acute labour shortages, trailing only behind accommodation and food services in this regard. Data recently released by the Construction Industry Federation has indicated that 16 percent of construction companies find it hard to recruit key personnel; this portrays a general phenomenon that must be addressed across the industry. According to the Construction Skills Network (CSN), it is expected that in the UK alone, 251,500 additional hands will be needed in the construction field during the next six years before 2028. Increasing age of the workforce, a dearth of diversity and financial pressure like increased cost of materials among other supply chain disruptions, have contributed to this talent shortage.
The skills gap shows itself in tangible form, with results. The project will be in delays due to staff shortages, thus the lateness in the delivery of very important infrastructure and housing developments. The increase in competition, seeking for qualified employees, brings about an increase in wages ultimately resulting in high total costs of the whole project. The strain placed on employees may impact the quality and safety of workmanship with hiring inexperienced ones.
Such obstacles will have to be faced with a proactive and multi-faceted approach. For instance, Strong Group as a specialist recruitment agency will get better in narrowing the gap in skills by connecting into clients and skilled professionals who require them most. Together with clients, we identify talent needs, strategise on the best approach to best streamline the hiring process and avail such a workforce to the business. Investment stands needed in partnership with schools and training providers to create accredited entry points into the industry for an entirely new generation of construction workers. Additionally, companies must also work on employer branding build competitive salaries, tangible levels of career advancement, and inclusive environments to attract wider talent pools. Matrix such recruitment diversity will even encourage more women and under-represented groups into the sector.
The UK construction industry is at a critical juncture, facing workforce shortages that require immediate action. A proactive approach to recruitment, alongside strategic training initiatives and industry-wide collaboration, is essential to building a resilient workforce capable of meeting the country’s future infrastructure demands. By fostering partnerships between businesses, policymakers, and recruiters, we can develop sustainable solutions that support both economic growth and workforce stability.
At Strong Group, we specialise in connecting top construction talent with the right opportunities. If you’re looking for expert recruitment support to secure skilled professionals for your projects, get in touch with us today at construction@strong-group.co.uk or call 020 8763 6122 and let’s build the future together.
Strong Group is the trading name of Strong Recruitment Group Limited, Registration Number: 07533524, Strong Group Holdings UK Limited, Registration Number: 11800610 Strong Driving & Industrial Recruitment Limited, Registration Number: 1182327, Registered office address: Legion House, 75 Lower Road, Kenley, CR8 5NH
