Bebington Glazing is encouraging North West construction companies to tackle the current skills shortage by inspiring the ‘next generation.’

Following a recent government report, which states that only 10% of the construction workforce consists of 19-24 year-olds, Managing Director Kay Finlay is hoping to shine light on how young people are hugely under-represented within the sector.

In a bid to tackle the skills gap, the report proposes the introduction of 20,000 apprenticeships nationwide, which Kay believes to be ‘intrinsic for sourcing and nurturing home-grown talent’.

Kay said:

“The construction industry is currently facing a huge challenge posed by the lack of skilled professionals in the sector. As construction is considered one of the leading drivers of the UK economy, we must work collectively to inspire and support talent in order to effectively tackle the issue and safeguard the future of the industry.

“Here at Bebington Glazing we believe that it is essential to provide young people with quality training programs to allow them to take the first steps in pursuing a career in the construction industry, as they are in fact the leaders of tomorrow. Apprenticeship schemes allow industry newcomers to learn the tricks of the trade and broaden their skillset through hands-on experience.”

Located in New Ferry, Bebington Glazing has become renowned across the North West for specialising in bespoke glass installation and repairs on both residential and commercial properties. In a bid to encourage the ‘next generation’ to enter the construction industry, the firm introduced an apprenticeship scheme in 2014.

Kay added:

“Construction companies need to work collaboratively on a long-term goal that promotes the industry as a desirable career path for the youth of today. It is up to us to spread the word on the different types of jobs that are available within the industry including technical, administration and manufacturing/distribution roles by offering the younger generation a chance to ‘earn whilst they learn’.

“As part of our in-house apprentice scheme which has run for the past two years, we have created two new permanent roles within the company and hope to further this number following the current 2015/16 apprentice intake. Here’s to bridging the gap in the skills shortage and creating exciting new roles in the sector.”

For more information visit www.bebingtonglazing.co.uk or call 0151 645 3830.