When Clive Dickin took over as CEO of the NASC nearly 18 months ago, the scaffolding industry was entering a period of rapid change. Since stepping into the role, Clive has wasted no time implementing a modernisation agenda aimed at positioning NASC as the progressive, inclusive, and forward-thinking voice of the scaffolding sector.I recently sat down with Clive at NASC’s headquarters in London for an in-depth discussion. The conversation covered everything from the success of ScaffEx24, future plans for ScaffEx25, major digitisation projects, changes to CISRS, the skills shortage, and how NASC is preparing to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2025.
Transforming NASC
Reflecting on his tenure so far, Clive described it as “amazing” but acknowledged that transforming a long-established organisation has not been without its challenges. He spoke about the need to modernise the internal structure of both NASC and CISRS, moving away from what he called a “secretariat-based approach” that would shift direction every two years.“That’s just not sustainable or productive in meeting the long-term needs of the sector,” he explained. “We’ve laid out a new business plan that provides stability and confidence, and we’ve already started to see the results.”One of the most visible signs of this new direction has been NASC’s push for greater inclusivity, opening its doors to more businesses, including smaller firms. “The quality of scaffolding must always be our priority, but we need to be inclusive. We can’t have firms sitting outside the tent operating to lower standards. We need to bring people in and inspire them to raise their game,” he said.
ScaffEx: A Game-Changer
Undoubtedly, one of the most significant changes under Mr Dickin’s leadership has been the launch of ScaffEx – the NASC’s flagship event, which replaced its traditional dinner. The inaugural ScaffEx24 was held in Belfast and was widely seen as a success, despite the usual behind-the-scenes challenges that come with a first-time event.“ScaffEx24 was about transparency and openness. We wanted an event where anyone from across the scaffolding and access sector could come along, network, and share best practices. That was our goal, and I think we achieved it,” Clive said.Looking ahead to ScaffEx25, which will be held in Manchester, the event is set to expand significantly. “We’ve already sold three-quarters of the exhibition space. We’ll have live demonstrations, a CISRS zone, and an open day for clients to learn about good procurement practices. We’re also excited to have Nina Hossain from ITV News and Sophie Long former BBC News as our hosts,” he revealed.While discussing the future of ScaffEx, Clive also hinted at the possibility of a national scaffolding skills competition, though he was clear that such an initiative would not happen before 2026 or 2027. “If we do it, it needs to be fair. It can’t favour one system over another. It needs to reflect the diversity of scaffolding methods used in the UK,” he said.
Digitisation: The Future of NASC and CISRS
A key part of NASC’s long-term vision is digitisation. During our interview, Mr Dickin made an exclusive announcement that the CISRS card system will soon go digital. By early 2026, scaffolders will be able to store their cards on a mobile app, allowing real-time access to their qualifications and training records.“It will be like having your car key on your phone. Forgotten or lost cards will be a thing of the past,” Clive explained. The app will feature contactless scanning and is part of a wider six-figure investment into NASC’s digital transformation.A Scaffmag mock-up of how the app might lookBut that’s not all. Clive also revealed that NASC is developing a broader app to serve as a central hub for scaffolding professionals. It will offer guidance documents, safety alerts, and other key resources at the tap of a button. “We want everything scaffolders need in their pocket,” he said.
Tackling the Skills Shortage
The conversation naturally turned to the skills crisis facing the industry. Mr Dickin highlighted the NASC’s proactive approach, including the Talent Solutions programme and the scaffoldingcareers.com website, which aims to attract new talent into the industry.However, he was candid about the need to expand CISRS training capacity. “We need more centres. We need more capacity. We need more courses. We are reviewing the specifications to make sure our training centres can meet demand,” he said.Clive also confirmed that the CISRS CPD scheme is being reviewed, with a likely shift towards a more flexible, points-based system that incorporates digital learning.
Looking Ahead: NASC at 80
2025 will be a landmark year for NASC as it celebrates its 80th anniversary. The organisation is planning a series of events across the country, starting with a regional event in Bristol and including a riverboat celebration in London. There will also be special activities at ScaffEx25 and regional gatherings to ensure all members can join the celebrations.“It’s not just about looking back. We’re calling it 80/20 because we want to reflect on the past 80 years but also look forward to the next 20. The future is digital, and we need to embrace that,” he said.
Final Thoughts
Throughout our conversation, one theme was constant – progress. Clive is leading NASC into a new era of inclusivity, digitisation, and transparency. While challenges remain, it is clear that under his leadership, NASC is determined to adapt, modernise, and continue raising standards across the scaffolding industry.
ScaffMag Editor Daniel Norton sat down with Doka CEO Robert Hauser and umdasch Industrial Solutions CEO Paolo Zumaglini to discuss how their partnership has evolved into a new global force in the scaffolding industry. Since the initial acquisition in 2020, significant milestones have shaped the collaboration and maximise customer value. This conversation explores the journey so far, the current market position, and what lies ahead—particularly in light of new developments set to be showcased at Bauma 2025.
Laying the Foundations: Doka and AT-PAC Join Forces
Daniel Norton: Mr. Hauser, let’s go back to the start. Doka’s full acquisition of AT-PAC in 2023 followed a few years of close collaboration. What sparked that initial partnership, and what was the bigger vision driving the decision?Robert Hauser:The initial idea was to have Doka’s own scaffolding product line and to open up a new business segment: Industry. The construction business is heavily dependent on economic and seasonal fluctuations; we wanted to make ourselves more independent of this. Industry, on the other hand, has a more constant demand pattern and offers continuous growth opportunities. In having our own scaffolding product line for Doka, we wanted to offer our construction customers scaffolding in synergy with formwork, in the sense of a one-stop shop. Providing both formwork and scaffolding from a single source is still a relatively new chapter for us at Doka, especially considering our more than 70-year history. For decades, Doka has been known as a global market leader in formwork; that’s where our roots are. However, we have consistently recognised scaffolding as an essential part of construction and saw an opportunity to enhance our offering with the same commitment to quality and innovation. This vision led us to partner more intensively with AT-PAC, a global leader in scaffolding systems based in the U.S. Choosing a partner in North America was no coincidence. This region is one of our key growth markets. From the outset, the collaboration was highly successful, demonstrating strong synergies and customer demand. This ultimately led to our full acquisition of AT-PAC in 2023, allowing us to fully integrate scaffolding solutions into Doka’s global offering.DN: What immediate benefits did this integration bring to Doka’s customers?RH:The biggest advantage for our construction customers is the ability to source both formwork and scaffolding from a single, trusted provider. This streamlined approach improves efficiency on-site, reduces complexity, and saves time. Additionally, our well-established professional rental process for formwork has been extended to scaffolding, giving our clients more flexibility and reliability in their projects.
Expanding Horizons: The Birth of umdasch Industrial Solutions
DN: Mr. Zumaglini, you’ve recently taken the helm at umdasch Industrial Solutions, the new division launched in January 2025. Can you tell us more about what this division is all about and where you see the biggest opportunities for growth?Paolo Zumaglini:Absolutely, with the acquisition we quickly recognised the immense potential beyond construction, opening new opportunities with industrial plant operators and scaffolding contractors. It became clear that industrial clients and specialised scaffolding companies have distinct requirements compared to construction companies. To serve them effectively, we needed a dedicated platform with the right expertise and focus. This is why we established umdasch Industrial Solutions, a company of the global Umdasch Group, to which Doka also belongs.This setup allows us to provide specialised scaffolding solutions under the AT-PAC brand, while Doka continues to serve construction companies with formwork and scaffolding as an integrated package.Today, umdasch Industrial Solutions is the third division within the Umdasch Group, focusing solely on industrial maintenance service providers, scaffolding contractors, and asset owners across sectors like oil and gas, mining, maritime, manufacturing, and energy. In each setting, we aim to be a key enabler of safe and efficient work environments, providing access, structural stability, and operational flexibility. We are rapidly expanding our global presence to support this growing market, opening multiple new locations across Europe and other key regions.
Strengthening the Brand and Portfolio
DN: Are there plans to introduce additional brands or expand the division to include other scaffolding-related services or products?PZ:Yes. AT-PAC, our dedicated scaffolding brand, is now our primary focus as we continue to expand our global footprint. We are actively establishing AT-PAC entities worldwide to create a clear distinction between businesses and provide greater market clarity for customers. At the same time, we will leverage synergies with Doka wherever strategically beneficial, particularly in terms of internal resources and expertise.Looking ahead, we see strong potential for expansion beyond AT-PAC. As the market evolves and new opportunities arise, we are open to introducing additional brands, products, or services that complement our portfolio and support the full lifecycle of industrial projects. Our long-term goal is to further solidify our position in scaffolding while continuously enhancing the solutions we provide to our customers.
Technology and Sustainability Driving the Future
DN: How do you both see technology, such as automation and sustainability-focused products, shaping the future of scaffolding and formwork solutions within your organisation?PZ:Technology is transforming the scaffolding industry. Weight reduction, ergonomic design, and digitalisation are becoming increasingly important—especially in Europe, where labour regulations demand safer, more efficient systems. Lightweight scaffolding systems are easier to handle and ideal for smaller crews, improving both safety and productivity.Additionally, digital tools like Hi-Vis® are optimising site processes, boosting efficiency, and enhancing safety. While automation in scaffolding is still in its early stages, we see great potential for it to revolutionise industrial maintenance and construction in the years ahead.RH:On the formwork side, digitalisation and automation are already making a significant impact. Our DokaXbot Lift, a semi-automated formwork robot, is a prime example. We also integrate data-driven solutions into our systems to optimise site performance and improve decision-making.Sustainability is another critical focus for us. We are pioneering solutions that extend product lifecycles and use recyclable materials. Additionally, we are the first in our industry to provide detailed product carbon footprint data, helping our customers align their purchasing decisions with their sustainability goals.
What’s Next: Bauma 2025
DN: What can we expect from Doka and AT-PAC at Bauma this year? Any exciting innovations to look forward to?PZ:We are introducing several new scaffolding solutions designed to improve efficiency and safety. One highlight is the Ringlock Hybrid Standard for Façade, which combines Ringlock and frame scaffolding elements for enhanced adaptability. We are also launching the Ringlock Multi-Purpose Beam System (MPBS), which can be configured for suspended scaffolding, bridging, or long spans. Additionally, our new Public Access System is a high-load stair tower designed for public spaces and emergency routes.RH:On the construction side, we are unveiling the Ringlock Shoring Frame, which speeds up assembly by 30% and improves site access with integrated ladders. All these innovations will be displayed alongside our towering scaffolding exhibit—always a highlight at Bauma.
The Strength of Umdasch Group
DN: Doka and umdasch Industrial Solutions benefit from the strong foundation of the Umdasch Group. How do these synergies impact your operations?RH:The strength of the Umdasch Group provides a unique advantage for all its divisions and brands. As a family-founded company with a long history of innovation and financial stability for more than 155 years, we have the resources to drive long-term growth, expand globally, and continuously invest in our people, all of which ultimately benefit our customers.PZ: This solid foundation provides us with a strong foundation for sustainable growth, like our mentioned global expansion plans. Within the Umdasch Group, we benefit from world-class engineering know-how, digital innovation, and a strong global infrastructure. Additionally, by leveraging shared corporate services, we can focus on what matters most: delivering value to our customers. Although umdasch Industrial Solutions is still a young company, we operate with the agility of a start-up while drawing on the experience and reliability of an established company group.
Looking Forward
As Doka and AT-PAC chart their paths within the Umdasch Group, their shared commitment to customer value, innovation, and global reach positions them to reshape the scaffolding and formwork landscape. For those in construction and industrial services, this is a partnership that’s building not just structures—but a future.
Rodells, a Hertfordshire-based scaffolding contractor with a history stretching back more than 125 years, has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, according to the Construction Enquirer.The company, which was founded in 1898 by Leonard Rodell as a steeple-jacking business, has grown into a major scaffolding operation, running services from its London Colney yard for large commercial and industrial projects across the UK. It also operates a specialist access works division in St Albans.The latest accounts for the year ending 31 March 2024 show Rodells employed 56 staff.The notice of intention gives the firm temporary protection from creditors while administrators assess the next steps. Further details on the reasons behind the move or the future of the business have yet to be confirmed.
The Scaffolding Association has announced a strategic partnership with Rightlease, a leading car and commercial vehicle leasing brokerage.The partnership aims to provide members with tailored and cost-effective vehicle leasing solutions, offering access to a wide range of cars, vans, and pickups through corporate or personal contracts.Rightlease, known for its expertise in the vehicle leasing market, has built strong relationships with manufacturers and lenders, allowing it to offer competitive pricing and flexible agreements. The collaboration is expected to benefit scaffolding firms by helping them secure reliable transportation at affordable rates.Scaffolding Association Chief Executive Robert Candy highlighted the importance of securing a trusted leasing partner in the current market.“The Scaffolding Association is delighted to partner with Rightlease, which will support members with an experienced and personal approach developed over many years in the vehicle leasing industry. Identifying the right partner in this ever-changing vehicle marketplace is increasingly important.”With the scaffolding industry reliant on efficient transport solutions, the partnership is designed to streamline the leasing process and ensure businesses have access to the vehicles they need.Rightlease Managing Director Gary Hodder emphasised the benefits the partnership will bring to association members.“Rightlease is excited to launch this strategic partnership with the Scaffolding Association, bringing an outstanding offering to its members. By leveraging strong manufacturer relationships and a broad panel of lenders, Rightlease can pass on significant savings, add real value, and deliver exceptional service.”The partnership has already received positive feedback from scaffolding professionals who have worked with Rightlease. Sean Phillips, Director of Inner City Scaffolding, praised the company’s service and reliability.“Gary and his team have consistently provided exceptional service at highly competitive rates. Their professionalism, reliability, and commitment to delivering on their promises set them apart. My experience has been outstanding, and I confidently endorse their services.”Scaffolding Association members can take advantage of exclusive leasing offers from Rightlease by using the code TSA when making inquiries.
Essex-based UPR Scaffolding has been awarded the prestigious’ Subcontractor of the Year 2024’ title at the annual Eastern Housebuilder’s Winter Ball in recognition of its outstanding service to the construction sector.
The award, voted for by housebuilders themselves, highlights UPR’s reputation for reliability, innovation, and excellence in scaffolding services. Joe Hopson, Managing Director of UPR Scaffolding, described the accolade as a “massive achievement” for the company, cementing its position as a trusted partner for housebuilders.
“To collect the award in front of over 500 industry professionals representing more than 50 leading construction firms was an incredible moment,” said Mr. Hopson.
“Our goal is to be the first choice for housebuilders, and winning this award is a testament to the service we provide. I want to thank every single member of our team for their dedication and hard work.”
The recognition marks a significant milestone for UPR Scaffolding, reinforcing its commitment to high safety standards and customer satisfaction in the ever-evolving construction industry.
A major overhaul of the UK’s planning system has begun, with the government promising the “biggest building boom in a generation” through a raft of reforms aimed at accelerating housebuilding and infrastructure projects.The Planning & Infrastructure Bill, which is being introduced to Parliament today, is designed to streamline the planning process, remove barriers to development, and support the government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes.Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing Angela Rayner hailed the Bill as a “seismic” change that will “get Britain building again” by cutting through bureaucratic delays and legal challenges that have slowed development for years.
Major Reforms to Planning & Development
The Bill introduces a new national planning policy framework, setting out a clearer, more structured approach to decision-making on new housing and infrastructure.Key measures include:
Planning Committee Overhaul – New rules will set out which types of planning applications are decided by local officers and which go to the committee. Councils will also be able to set their own planning fees to cover costs, while mandatory training will be introduced for planning committee members.
Nature Restoration Fund – Developers will be able to offset environmental damage by contributing to a new fund that will finance nature restoration in alternative locations.
Compulsory Purchase Reform – Landowners will no longer receive compensation for ‘hope value’—the assumed future value of land with planning permission—when their land is acquired for development.
New Towns & Development Corporations – The government will establish new development corporations with enhanced powers to drive the creation of new towns.
Strategic Planning Framework – A new spatial development strategy will allow regional mayors and local authorities to coordinate growth across multiple areas, ensuring that housing and infrastructure development go hand in hand.
Infrastructure & Energy Projects to be Fast-Tracked
The Bill also aims to accelerate major infrastructure projects, particularly in transport and energy, by reducing legal hurdles and simplifying approval processes.
Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) – The approval process for NSIPs will be streamlined, cutting back on bureaucracy and limiting legal challenges to a single court attempt for cases deemed ‘meritless’.
Transport Planning Reform – Amendments to the Highways Act and Transport & Works Act will remove planning barriers for road and rail projects, ensuring quicker progress.
Faster Renewable Energy Connections – A new “first ready, first connected” system will replace the existing grid connection model, reducing waiting times of up to 10 years for wind and solar power projects.
£250 Energy Bill Discounts
In a bid to mitigate local resistance to new electricity transmission infrastructure, households living within 500 metres of new pylons will receive up to £250 off their energy bills per year for a decade.Additionally, developers will be required to invest in local communities, funding projects such as sports facilities, educational programmes, or leisure centres. The government estimates that one upcoming project—SSEN Transmission’s power line between Tealing and Aberdeenshire—could see local communities receive £23 million in funding for local initiatives.
Rayner: ‘We Are Backing the Builders’
Deputy PM, Angela RaynerUnveiling the reforms, Angela Rayner said: “We’re creating the biggest building boom in a generation as a major step forward in getting Britain building again and unleashing economic growth in every corner of the country. By lifting the bureaucratic burden that has held back developments for too long, we are backing the builders, taking on the blockers, and delivering the homes and infrastructure this country so badly needs.”She added that the reforms would directly address the housing crisis, ensuring that not only aspiring homeowners but also families stuck in temporary accommodation would benefit from increased housebuilding.The Bill will now begin its passage through Parliament, with both industry and opposition figures expected to scrutinise its implications in the coming weeks.
Industry Reaction
Clive Dickin, CEO of the NASC said: “We fully support the government’s ambitions and agree we need to see reform of the planning system. But while this a good start, there remain plenty of other structural challenges that will potentially hold back economic growth, not least major workforce shortages. Until we address the skills shortages across the construction sector, including a major lack of scaffolders, many of the projects the government wants to see kick-start economic growth won’t get off the ground.”
Blenheim Palace, one of the UK’s most treasured landmarks, is undergoing a £12 million roof restoration project, with scaffolding set to dominate its landscape for the next 18 months.As revealed in an ITV News report, this extensive conservation effort aims to protect the nationally significant ceiling artwork by Sir James Thornhill, which has suffered substantial rainwater damage, mould, and structural cracks.The scaffolding works, including a massive temporary roof, are being carried out by Allen & Foxworthy Ltd and are expected to be completed by autumn 2025. However, the full restoration of the roof will continue into autumn 2026. This complex project is critical in safeguarding the 18th-century masterpiece, which sits just an inch beneath the deteriorating roof structure.The ITV news report highlighted that Blenheim’s Great Hall’s historic ceiling painting is severely threatened. Years of heavy rainfall and snowfall, exacerbated by climate change, have resulted in leaks, wood rot, and failing infrastructure. Buckets strategically placed inside the palace catch the constant drips while urgent measures are being taken to stop further deterioration.
Scaffolding Not Just a Necessity, But an Experience
While scaffolding has become an essential feature of the palace, it is also being celebrated rather than hidden. Blenheim Palace is turning this restoration into an interactive visitor experience, launching a “Scaffold Experience” on May 1, 2025. This unique attraction will allow visitors to ascend the scaffolding to witness the conservation work up close, enjoy breathtaking views of the estate, and gain insight into the meticulous efforts behind the palace’s preservation.Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has undergone continuous roof repairs for over 200 years. The current 18-month scaffolding phase marks one of the most ambitious projects in its history.Credit: ITV NewsWhile disruptions are unavoidable, keeping the palace open to its one million annual visitors remains a top priority.A spokesperson for Blenheim Palace stated: “We don’t just tolerate scaffolding anymore; we celebrate it. Without our visitors, we wouldn’t be able to fund crucial restoration projects like this.”The scaffolding will remain a defining feature of Blenheim Palace until autumn 2026, ensuring that this iconic landmark remains protected for the next 75 years and beyond.
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced a £1.15 billion investment as part of its Strategic Plan 2025–29, aiming to tackle the construction industry’s growing skills gap and improve training accessibility.With the UK facing a shortage of skilled workers, CITB’s strategy focuses on attracting new talent, enhancing training provision, and supporting employers in developing and retaining their workforce. The plan includes:
£554 million to promote careers in construction and attract new entrants.
£315 million to support businesses in upskilling their workforce.
£137 million to simplify training routes and increase accessibility.
CITB CEO Tim Balcon emphasised the importance of industry collaboration: “The construction sector is vital to the UK economy, and we need to ensure we have the workforce to meet demand. Our investment will make training more accessible and support businesses in developing skilled workers.”The initiative aims to deliver 1.5 million new homes and major infrastructure projects while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. CITB has also pledged to engage with over 5 million potential new entrants and provide direct funding support to over 35,000 employers.With an expected annual levy income of £239 million, CITB plans to drive a 5% increase in employer confidence in training availability, helping to close the skills gap and secure the future of UK construction.
A Merseyside scaffolding company has been fined £30,800 after an investigation found workers had been using an unsafe scaffold at a construction site in Merseyside.A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, based in Kirkby, was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after inspectors identified serious failings in the erection of a scaffold tower at a block of flats on Rice Hey Road in May 2021.An investigation found that the company had failed to follow proper assembly instructions, and workers accessed the scaffold by climbing its framework rather than using a ladder. The lack of a safe means of access contravened HSE guidelines designed to prevent falls from height – one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries in the construction sector.The HSE launched its inquiry following the death of 45-year-old Robert Duffy, an employee of A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, who suffered serious injuries while working at the site. Mr Duffy died in hospital three days later. However, the prosecution was not broughton the grounds that the unsafe scaffold was directly responsible for his death.A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The firm was fined £30,800 and ordered to pay £5,040.75 in costs at Wirral Magistrates’ Court on 27 February 2025.Following the sentencing, HSE inspector Sam Eves said: “A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd did not ensure the tower scaffold was constructed correctly. The company failed to provide a safe way to get to and from the work platform, for example using an appropriately designed internal ladder.”He urged companies to follow HSE guidance to ensure that similar work is “effectively planned, managed, and monitored” to protect workers from unnecessary risks.Each year, multiple injuries occur due to improperly erected scaffolds or the lack of adequate safety measures. The HSE warns that incidents are often caused by defects in scaffold structures or a failure to follow manufacturer instructions regarding bracing and height limitations.The prosecution was led by HSE senior enforcement lawyer Daniel Poole, with support from HSE paralegal officer Helen Hugo.
A new initiative designed to tackle the mental health crisis in the construction industry has been launched, offering discreet and accessible support to workers facing stress, anxiety, and financial struggles.HappiHub, founded by former builder Steve Anderson, is a mental health platform that aims to break down barriers preventing construction workers from seeking help. The platform’s unique approach, including a 24/7 anonymous support tool called HappiBot, is already being used by major firms such as London Fire Solutions, MCS Group, Glencar, and Wrenbridge Sport.
A Silent Crisis in Construction
The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. Figures suggest that workers are four times more likely to take their own lives compared to the general population, with 7,000 suicides recorded in the sector alone. Experts say long hours, job insecurity, and a work culture that prizes resilience over vulnerability all contribute to the crisis.Steve Anderson, 42, knows this struggle firsthand. A former construction business owner, Mr. Anderson battled addiction and lost a friend to suicide. His experience led him to study Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and pursue a Psychology degree, ultimately founding HappiHub to provide workers with the kind of support he once needed.
“Telling Men to Talk Doesn’t Work”
Speaking about the industry’s mental health challenges, Mr Anderson said: “After my own stint in rehab and losing a friend to suicide, I started to realise the approach of telling these ‘Alpha males’ that they have to talk doesn’t and won’t ever work. We needed to find out what the roadblock is to why they don’t talk in the first place and give them the discreet tools and support to get them to feel safe. That’s when we see amazing results happen.”HappiHub aims to meet workers where they are—on-site, at home, and through their mobile phones—offering tools that don’t require face-to-face conversations but still provide vital help.
A New Approach to Mental Health
At the heart of HappiHub’s offering is HappiBot, a confidential, 24/7 chatbot designed to provide instant mental health support. Unlike traditional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), which often go unused due to stigma, HappiBot allows workers to seek help anonymously, addressing issues such as:
Mental health and stress management
Financial concerns
Sleep and nutrition guidance
Support for addiction recovery
Companies using the platform also receive monthly impact reports to help them understand how mental health initiatives are improving their workforce’s well-being.
Breaking the Stigma, One Conversation at a Time
Mental health in construction has long been a taboo subject, with many workers fearing judgment or repercussions for speaking up.Industry leaders, however, are starting to recognise that tackling mental health is not just about supporting individuals—it’s also about improving safety, reducing absenteeism, and retaining skilled workers.HappiHub’s early success suggests that a shift is underway. With backing from leading firms and a growing awareness of the industry’s mental health crisis, there is hope that construction workers may finally have access to the support they need—on their terms.For Mr Anderson, this is more than just a business; it’s a mission.“I’ve seen what happens when people suffer in silence,” he says. “We’re changing that.”
Undoubtedly, one of the most significant changes under Mr Dickin’s leadership has been the launch of ScaffEx – the NASC’s flagship event, which replaced its traditional dinner. The inaugural ScaffEx24 was held in Belfast and was widely seen as a success, despite the usual behind-the-scenes challenges that come with a first-time event.
“ScaffEx24 was about transparency and openness. We wanted an event where anyone from across the scaffolding and access sector could come along, network, and share best practices. That was our goal, and I think we achieved it,” Clive said.
Looking ahead to ScaffEx25, which will be held in Manchester, the event is set to expand significantly. “We’ve already sold three-quarters of the exhibition space. We’ll have live demonstrations, a CISRS zone, and an open day for clients to learn about good procurement practices. We’re also excited to have Nina Hossain from ITV News and Sophie Long former BBC News as our hosts,” he revealed.
While discussing the future of ScaffEx, Clive also hinted at the possibility of a national scaffolding skills competition, though he was clear that such an initiative would not happen before 2026 or 2027. “If we do it, it needs to be fair. It can’t favour one system over another. It needs to reflect the diversity of scaffolding methods used in the UK,” he said.
