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Construction recruiters remain on call to provide key skills

New figures from the Construction Skills Network (CSN) forecast a long return to growth for the construction industry with the sector expected to emerge from the recession in 2011- but recruiters are on standby to deliver the skills required for projects.

The CSN report shows a 13 per cent contraction in the construction industry with an expected fall in employment within the sector of 375,000 over the 2008 to 2010 period. Growth was reported in 2009 in the public sector due to ongoing projects such as the Olympics and Building Schools for the Future programme, projects which will aid in the recovery of the private sector. 

Commenting on the news, Simon Noakes, Chair of REC Construction said: “The CSN Skills report reiterates what we in the sector were fully aware of – 2009 was a difficult year. As a group, we have to remain positive; there are markets within our sector that are less acutely affected than others.” 

The REC Report on Jobs has shown an increase in demand for permanent staff within the construction sector and encouraging signs for the temporary recruitment market as clients used more temporary agency labour.  

This increase demonstrates the reliability of specialist agencies to not only cover temporary peaks but to work in partnership with clients on a long term basis offering quality as well as flexibility within the workforce. This service is indispensable in a difficult and uncertain economic climate.  

Simon Noakes continued: “We have to make sure we offer the best possible service to our clients.  It is vital the market knows that we as REC members can offer a flexible workforce without neglecting standards and legislation.     

The sector group is in regular contact with the sector skills council it is imperative that communication is consistent to ensure skills are matched to the industries requirements. Skills shortages need to be addressed in the short-term for the long term benefits of the construction market.”