The UK is facing a serious shortage of skilled tradespeople, with gaps in expertise that threaten the country’s Net Zero ambitions and the delivery of new homes. This shortfall is especially acute in improving existing homes to be more energy-efficient and lower their carbon footprint — a space where electricians play a vital role.
Simon Ayers MBE, CEO of TrustMark, highlights findings from the recent Skilled to Build report, examining the Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) sector, with a particular focus on the small and micro businesses that dominate it. The report explores challenges in recruitment, training, and funding, offering practical recommendations to build a skilled, competent workforce.
Recruitment vacancies hampering progress
The report, based on research with over 1,200 small and micro businesses, reveals a strong appetite to hire. Nearly half (45%) of these businesses have at least one vacancy. Key points include:
- Micro businesses typically report one vacancy
- Small firms average just over three vacancies
- Growth-focused businesses may have five or more vacancies
Staff shortages are slowing progress toward Net Zero, threatening the stability of small firms. Over half (52%) have had to scale back work, while 37% rely on subcontractors—a solution increasingly under pressure, with 56% struggling to find reliable support.
An ageing workforce: A race against time
The sector’s workforce is ageing. About 44% of RMI workers are 55 or over, compared to 21% across the UK. Many plan to retire or semi-retire in the next three years, putting around 39,000 businesses at risk of disappearing within a decade. Encouragingly, 55% of retiring business owners are willing to mentor or train the next generation, presenting an opportunity to retain critical skills.
Three critical bottlenecks
Businesses report three main challenges that need urgent attention:
1. Cumbersome recruitment processes
- 44% want simpler, more transparent hiring
- 39% cite bureaucracy as a barrier to recruiting apprentices
2. Training gaps
- 22% report a lack of suitable apprenticeship courses
- 29% feel unsupported by training providers
- 52% have never hired an apprentice
- Completion rates for End Point Assessments have dropped from 55% (2017/18) to 35% (2022/23)
3. Limited financial support
- 64% say funding for trade-based apprenticeships is inadequate
- Only 7% accessed the Apprenticeship/Skills and Growth Levy
- Time and uncertain work remain barriers for training apprentices
Unlocking economic potential
Filling current vacancies, which is an estimated 195,000 additional workers, could boost the RMI sector by £9.6 billion in revenue and £4.1 billion in gross value added (GVA). Over 70% of these gains would benefit regions outside London and the South East, highlighting the potential for nationwide growth and regional investment.
Building a workforce for a greener future
To meet Net Zero goals, electricians and other tradespeople must retrain in renewables and clean heat technologies. Current challenges include:
- 79% of renewable energy businesses report vacancies
- 44% of companies need financial support for training
- 20% see dedicated renewable training centres as critical
Awareness among homeowners about renewable technologies is still limited, meaning demand-side education will be as important as supply-side skills.
Looking ahead
TrustMark is committed to addressing skills shortages in the RMI and construction sectors. The report recommends:
- Developing fit-for-purpose training and curricula
- Simplifying recruitment systems for small businesses
- Increasing awareness and access to financial incentives
- Promoting upskilling in renewables and clean heat technologies
Simon Ayers MBE concludes: "RMI businesses want to grow, but they need support. Our research shows the challenges they face and offers practical solutions. By working together, industry, government, and organisations like TrustMark, we can ensure warmer, more efficient homes and a skilled workforce for the UK."
Electricians are central to this transformation. The challenge is clear, but so is the opportunity: a chance to grow your business, train the next generation, and lead the way to a low-carbon future.
To read the full TrustMark report, click Skilled to Build.
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