Calls To Invest In Builders

Fife's construction staff crisis is the worst in the country, according to a report.

The latest Scottish Building Federation's survey found the Kingdom and Central are struggling the most.

Bricklayers and Wood Machinists are particularly hard to come by in the region.

The body's calling for more investment from the Scottish Government to train apprentices.

Commenting on the survey results, Managing Director Vaughan Hart said:
 
“With these new survey results, it’s great news that the Scottish industry is able to close 2014 on a new confidence high. That suggests that the industry’s recovery is now happening.  

"The flip side of that is that employers are encountering increasing difficulties in filling certain management roles and there are emerging skills shortages in certain trades. This seems to be particularly true of joinery and bricklaying trades.
 
“Our members are telling us that current levels of funding provided through Government and CITB grants to help employers recruit and train apprentices are insufficient. Given the growing skills shortages the industry is now facing, now is the time to review funding and to explore what additional support can be provided to boost training and recruitment.

"As an industry, we also need to be more proactive in promoting careers in construction as an excellent prospect for today’s school leavers.”