‘Apprentices vital to plug plumbing skills gap’

Nearly two-thirds of plumbers have apprentices on their workforce, according to a survey of Bristan Connect members. Half of them (50 per cent) feel strongly that apprenticeships are the lifeblood of the industry, and one-third (33 per cent) say it’s vital if the current skills gap is to be filled.

This research comes as we continue to face the biggest skills shortage seen for a generation in all areas of construction – from plumbers and builders to engineers. The company says there is still a big problem with the increasing number of unqualified tradespeople entering industry – with cowboy plumbers alone costing the UK £2.6 billion in recent years.*

Bristan’s research shows that this is still a key concern for installers, with nearly two-thirds (60 per cent) admitting that the skills gap is a worry and that the industry needs new entrants.

The company’s marketing manager Hayley Holland says: “It is great to see so many installers willing to invest in the younger generation. Apprenticeships can make industries more effective, productive and competitive by addressing the skills gap directly. They are the proven way to train the workforce of the future.”