The skilled labour shortage in construction: causes, impacts, and solutions

The UK construction industry is under pressure. One of the biggest challenges today is the growing shortage of skilled labour—a problem that affects project delivery, workforce safety, and national housing targets. With the industry expanding rapidly post-pandemic, the demand for trained professionals far outweighs the supply.

At The Builders Academy, we specialise in equipping individuals with industry-recognised qualifications to address this shortage. Whether through our CSCS Green Card package or leadership courses like CITB SSSTS and CITB SMSTS, we help learners and employers close the skills gap with confidence.

understanding the shortage: key causes

decline in vocational training and apprenticeships

Apprenticeship starts in the construction sector dropped by 13% between 2016 and 2021 (source: UK Parliament POST, 2022). This decline is due in part to the perception that university degrees offer better career prospects, while hands-on trades are undervalued.

Many employers also reduced apprenticeship schemes after the 2008 financial crisis, and uptake has not yet recovered.

solution: investing in early-stage training and promoting the CSCS Level 1 Health & Safety Course as an entry point into the industry.

economic downturns and sector instability

During periods such as the 2008 recession and COVID-19 pandemic, many skilled construction workers left the industry and never returned. Today, labour demand has outpaced recovery, and firms often extend contracts with older workers nearing retirement due to limited replacements.

solution: expand training opportunities for younger generations and those switching careers, supported by initiatives like our full CSCS Green Card package.

rapid technological change

Modern construction increasingly relies on digital tools, modular housing, and automation. Yet, many workers lack the digital literacy needed to adapt. This mismatch has widened the gap between traditional trades and emerging skills.

solution: upskilling is vital. CPD-certified programmes in Working at Height, Fire Marshal, and Traffic Marshal are effective ways to ensure the workforce is future-ready.

post-brexit immigration policy

Between 2019 and 2021, over 8% of the UK’s EU-born construction workers exited the workforce (source: ONS Labour Market Overview). Brexit has restricted the supply of skilled foreign labour, intensifying shortages.

solution: focus on domestic training pipelines and adapt recruitment strategies to meet workforce demand with UK-based talent.

impact on the construction sector

delayed project completion: housing delivery targets, such as the UK government’s 300,000 homes per year goal, have consistently been missed.
increased project costs: 90% of firms surveyed in RICS’ Construction Monitor Q4 2023 reported labour shortages as a primary cost driver.
reduced quality and safety: understaffed or underqualified sites face higher risks of compliance breaches and accidents, making SSSTS and SMSTS qualifications essential for leadership roles.

solutions for the future

develop a tech-savvy construction workforce

Emerging roles will require knowledge in:

drone surveying
project management software
modular construction
BIM (building information modelling)

The Builders Academy offers a full suite of certifications to help workers upskill quickly and affordably.

attract and retain young talent

To reshape public perception, the sector must:

promote high earnings in trades
highlight career progression (from labourer to supervisor/manager)
support inclusive apprenticeship schemes

Programmes such as Go Construct help connect young learners with construction career pathways.

prioritise health, safety, and certification

Training is the foundation of a skilled workforce. Through industry-aligned education, workers can gain access to better roles and build long-term careers.

Key qualifications include:

final thoughts

The skilled labour shortage is both a crisis and an opportunity. By equipping workers with the right qualifications and ensuring ongoing development, the construction industry can build a sustainable, high-performing workforce.

To start your journey:

???? call: 0203 345 6575
???? email: [email protected]
???? visit: www.thebuildersacademy.co.uk

Our Catalogue

the skilled labour shortage in construction: causes and solutions