Digital ID Scheme Could Transform Construction

The UK Government has announced plans to introduce a new Digital ID system that could change the way right-to-work checks are carried out across the construction industry.

The scheme, revealed on 26 September, will provide UK citizens and legal residents with a government-verified digital ID, stored securely on their smartphones. Similar to how the NHS app or a contactless bank card works, this ID would be used as mandatory proof of an individual’s right to work.

What Does This Mean for Construction?

Right-to-work checks are a crucial but time-consuming part of recruitment in construction. Agencies and contractors often face delays verifying documents, especially when working remotely or checking non-EU nationals whose paperwork can take several days to process.

A digital ID could streamline this process by:

• Speeding up onboarding for workers.

• Reducing fraudulent documents.

• Ensuring higher compliance standards across the board.

• Creating one single, government-approved source of verification.

This would not only benefit recruitment agencies and contractors but also give workers quicker access to employment opportunities.

Pros & Cons of the Digital ID Scheme

Pros:
✅ Faster onboarding for candidates, reducing project delays.
✅ Improved compliance with fewer fraudulent documents slipping through.
✅ A central, government-approved system providing consistency across the industry.
✅ Better transparency and trust for employers and workers alike.

Cons:
⚠️ Accessibility challenges for workers without smartphones, particularly older generations.
⚠️ Integration issues if the system does not align with existing processes such as CSCS cards.
⚠️ Risk of additional red tape if rollout is fragmented or poorly implemented.
⚠️ Potential concerns around data security and user privacy.

Opportunities and Challenges

The proposed scheme has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of labour supply in construction. However, ensuring that the system is accessible, secure, and well-integrated will be vital for its success.

At Strong Group, compliance and efficiency are at the heart of everything we do. Any system that can speed up onboarding while maintaining the highest standards of worker verification is a step forward for the industry.

That said, the implementation details will be critical. A fragmented rollout or poor integration with existing systems could add more complexity rather than reduce it.

We’ll be monitoring the government’s consultation closely and keeping our clients and candidates informed as more details are released.

We specialise in providing fully compliant, reliable staffing solutions for the construction industry. As new systems like Digital ID reshape recruitment, our priority remains ensuring clients have access to skilled workers quickly and securely. If your business is looking for trusted labour supply to keep projects moving, get in touch with us today on 020 8763 6122 or email info@strong-group.co.uk

Final Thoughts

The Digital ID scheme has the potential to be a real game-changer for construction. By making recruitment faster, more secure, and more transparent, it could support the industry in tackling skills shortages and meeting the growing demand for projects across the UK.

Strong Group will continue to provide reliable, compliant staffing solutions, ensuring our clients have the skilled workforce they need.