The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has called for urgent action to tackle the skills crisis in the construction sector following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s announcement of a plan to accelerate economic growth.
While welcoming the ambition behind proposals to create a new “Silicon Valley” and revitalise the UK economy, NASC has warned that without skilled workers, these plans could struggle to become reality.
NASC Chief Executive Clive Dickin highlighted concerns that major infrastructure projects, including the redevelopment of Old Trafford, would be hampered by a shortage of trained scaffolders.
The organisation has repeatedly urged the government to add scaffolders to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), arguing that access to skilled overseas workers could help fill immediate gaps in the workforce and enable critical construction projects to proceed.
The government’s recently published Infrastructure Strategy Working Paper has outlined a commitment to collaboration with industry stakeholders. However, NASC believes that without significant intervention, including greater investment in skills training, the sector will face increasing challenges in meeting demand.
“The UK does not have enough skilled scaffolders to support current projects, let alone the surge in construction that the Chancellor envisions,” Dickin said. “Adding scaffolders to the Shortage Occupation List is a crucial step in bridging the gap, ensuring we have the workforce needed to build safely and efficiently.”
NASC has also emphasised the importance of long-term investment in training and development, citing initiatives such as its partnership with City & Guilds Training on Scaffolding Skills Bootcamps.
The organisation argues that while these programs demonstrate the industry’s commitment to upskilling, sustained government support is required to expand opportunities for new entrants into the trade.
Chancellor Reeves has expressed determination to drive economic growth and tackle challenges facing the UK workforce. NASC is urging her to prioritise the construction skills gap as part of this strategy, warning that failure to do so could undermine efforts to fast-track new projects and infrastructure development.
“The government must take immediate steps to address the scaffolding skills shortage,” said Dickin. “The future of the UK’s construction sector—and by extension, the economy—depends on swift and decisive action.”
NASC remains committed to working with policymakers to find solutions, ensuring that the necessary workforce is in place to support the UK’s ambitious infrastructure plans.
