The latest poll of members of the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations (FETA) suggests that the labour market is currently the number one area of concern for firms operating in the built environment. Industry uncertainty and a shortage of skilled labour has pushed labour costs higher and left businesses struggling to recruit the experienced personnel they need. What’s more, with the labour market stretched, many firms also face concerns over retaining existing workers.
With 43% of respondents to the poll citing the labour market as the biggest issue facing their business, FETA says that it’s clear that recruitment has become a significant problem for members. However this is by no means the only area of concern as availability of raw materials (21%) and rising energy costs (14%) were also high on the list of issues being faced by respondents.
Chris Yates, FETA Chief Executive, commentss: “The results of this poll reflect the challenging labour market and ongoing skills shortage in the industry. At FETA we are committed to supporting members struggling to fill vacancies by assisting our associations in the development of training pathways and encouraging employers to explore recruitment schemes such as the Government’s Way to Work programme.”
The Way to Work campaign is a national push to fill vacancies and help individuals back into the world of work. Those looking to fill a vacancy are allocated a named employer adviser in a local Jobcentre and granted access to a range of recruitment services.
FETA is represents the interests of over 400 manufacturers, suppliers, installers and contractors within heating, ventilating, building controls, refrigeration and air conditioning. For more details, please visit: www.feta.co.uk
