The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has called for a national campaign promoting construction careers after a major review warned that the number of young people not in education, employment or training (Neet) could continue to rise.
The intervention follows publication on 28 May of the interim findings of the government’s Young People and Work review, led by former education minister Alan Milburn, which highlighted the scale of youth economic inactivity across the UK.
More than one million 16- to 24-year-olds are currently classed as Neet, according to recent figures from the Office for National Statistics. The review warns that, without action, the proportion of young people falling into the category could increase further over the coming years.
Responding to the report, CIOB welcomed its focus on tackling the structural barriers that prevent many young people from entering work or education, but said construction could play an important role in providing opportunities.
David Barnes, CIOB head of policy and public affairs, said the figures remained “deeply concerning”.
“We welcome the approach taken in the Young People and Work interim report, which recognises the systemic barriers that have kept too many young people out of education, employment and training, and the shared responsibility needed to address the issue,” he said.
“We encourage young people to view construction careers as an interesting, varied and rewarding path that provides opportunities for young people.”
Barnes said better careers advice was needed to steer more young people towards the sector, particularly given the industry’s looming workforce challenge.
CIOB research suggests that 66% of young people already hold a positive view of construction careers. Meanwhile, the sector is expected to require an additional 240,000 workers by 2029 to meet forecast demand.
Campaign to raise awareness
The institute is calling for a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of construction careers, modelled on recruitment initiatives used by the Armed Forces and the teaching profession.
Barnes said such a campaign could showcase the range of opportunities available across the built environment and help attract new entrants at a time when the government is seeking to accelerate housebuilding and infrastructure delivery.
“CIOB believes a national campaign, similar to those for the Armed Forces and teaching, showcasing the exciting and rewarding careers available in construction, would inspire some to join the industry, bringing down these terrible statistics and boosting the industry to deliver the much-needed new homes and infrastructure the government has committed to,” added Barnes.
The full Young People and Work review is expected to be published in September and will include recommendations aimed at improving employment outcomes for young people.
CIOB said it would engage with the final report and continue to work with policymakers on creating clearer pathways into construction careers for young people.
