LOCHMABEN-based roof tile manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles has revealed how it is supporting the National House Building Council (NHBC) in its ambition to address skills shortages within the construction sector.
Representatives from SME builders, major housebuilders, and industry trade bodies were recently involved in a roundtable on how to build the housebuilding workforce required. Hosted by NHBC and CITB (Construction Industry Training Board), the discussion covered a range of issues affecting skills development.
NHBC is investing £100 million in a national network of 12 multi-skill training hubs. These facilities will train 3,000 apprentices each year in trades such as bricklaying, groundworks, and carpentry.
NHBC backs the UK Government’s Construction Skills Package, which sees the government investing £600 million in training providers and the industry working together, helping to equip thousands of people with the skills required to build quality homes.
Russell Roof Tiles’ in-house technical team is providing tailored training covering roof tile fixings, accessories, and site compliance to NHBC at sessions in Scotland and England, including the Lochmaben site over the next three months.
The initiative is headed up by technical director Mark Parsons, who has worked with NHBC for many years on technical best practices.
He said, “We’re delighted to be supporting NHBC and its crucial work in investment in skills and training. We are pleased to be providing expert tuition on installing pitched roof tiles as well as dry fixing systems.”
Darryl Stewart, head of commercial services at NHBC, added, “Sustained investment in training is essential to help the UK meet the government’s ambitious housing targets. We are always exploring new ways we can work with partners to drive skills-based training and remain committed to driving quality across the industry.”
