British construction firms could be forced to look abroad for workers, due to a severe shortage of skilled building trade workers in the UK.
According to a recent survey carried out by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), 65 per cent of small British construction firms say they have been forced to turn down business due to a lack of workers and resources.
Bricklayers and carpenters/joiners are the most in-demand occupations, the survey found.
The research reveals that the main reason for the construction worker shortage is down the difficulty companies have in finding willing apprentices. It is believed young Brits are being put off construction work because they believe the industry is low paid. However, according to the FMB, a 23-year-old bricklayer with five years’ experience can earn £31,000 a year – a figure above the national average salary.
This salary could be as high as £52,000 a year from those working in London, the FMB says.
Building trades most in demand
- Bricklayers
- Carpenters/joiners
- Plasterers
- General construction operatives
- Plumbers and heating engineers
- Roofers
- Painters and decorators
- Electricians
- Ground workers
- Floorers
Source: Federation of Master Builders