As part of our Plan for Change to build 1.5 million homes, the Government has announced £600 million worth of investment over the next four years to get Britain building, training 60,000 more construction workers and breaking down barriers to opportunity for thousands of young people.
Under the previous government, the construction sector repeatedly sounded the alarm over skills shortages, with around 320,000 workers lost between 2019 and 2024. The Government’s plans will boost the construction workforce, provide good jobs for communities in Newcastle North and deliver new homes and infrastructure projects across the country.
The North East already has a proud track record of construction jobs, with 76,884 working in the sector – around 6.1% of the total regional workforce. The Government’s investment will unlock new opportunities for young people to work in the industry.
The New Foundation Construction Apprenticeships will give young people aged 16-21 the tools they need for a sustained and rewarding career, with employers given up to £2,000 for every apprentice they take on. The package will also give funding to support Further Education providers in offering industry placements, with tens of thousands of students per year set to gain industry experience.
The government will also fund ten Technical Excellence Colleges specialising in construction, as well as an expansion to Skills Bootcamps backed by £100 million of funding.
Catherine commented:
“This Labour Government is serious about its Plan for Change to get Britain building.
“I am pleased that this package will not only fuel economic growth in Newcastle North, but it will also unlock opportunities for young people in our community.”
