“We are the problem,” say industry leaders debating future of housing workforce

Tess Egginton
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“We are the problem,” say industry leaders debating future of housing workforce
Housing and construction leaders convened in Derby this week for a day of debate on the growing skills crisis that threatens the UK’s ability to build and maintain homes. Hosted by PfP Thrive, part of Places for People, the event brought together senior figures from housing associations, training providers, and contractors, all united by one candid admission: “We are the problem.” PfP Thrive welcomed 50 delegates to Derby – the city that will soon be home to its flagship academy opening this autumn. In an opening address on the day, Jen Radcliffe, head of partnerships at PfP Thrive, said “the housing sector has been its own blocker.” “We need to do more than just offer training,” she added. “We must remove barriers to entry and appeal to a far wider audience. Collaboration across industry, education and government is essential if we are to attract and retain the talent we so desperately need.” Among the speakers was Phil Pemberton, MD of Property Services at Riverside, who declared: “I and others in this room are part of the problem. “Too many of us are men over 50, and as peers retire, they take vital knowledge with them. We must incentivise experienced colleagues to remain as mentors, while also motivating young people with slick technology and modern ways of working.” Pemberton went on to describe a 20% surge in social housing repair requests since the Covid-19 lockdowns, driven by new building safety regulations and an ageing housing stock. “We must engage government and educational bodies, so they understand our capacity gap, and lobby for the resources to build, and maintain, homes to the highest standard.” Russell Thompson, CEO of Direct Works Group, praised recent government commitments to recruit 100,000 new workers into construction, but warned that sheer numbers would be meaningless without proper skills. “Training 100,000 people is a positive step, but unless we deliver a truly sophisticated, structured training system, we will have failed. We’ve watered down our trades over the years, and we now need deeper, broader and more diverse learning.” Sarah Turner of City & Guilds, drawing on her organisation’s newly published Foundations for the Future report, highlighted that 52% of current vacancies remain unfilled through lack of skills, qualifications or experience. “Skills change lives and build futures,” she said. “Apprenticeships aren’t just for school-leavers; they should be an option for people of all ages and backgrounds. The apprenticeship levy is underused, yet it represents a golden opportunity to invest in every discipline across housing.” The day also explored innovative solutions to retain apprentices. Ettan Bazil of the RAFT charity revealed that 44% of apprentices fail to complete their programmes, often due to the burden of portfolio work. RAFT’s AI powered mentoring platform now offers free digital resources and remote support, allowing learners to focus on practical skills. “While the Chancellor’s Spring Statement skills fund is welcome,” Bazil noted, “we must ensure that candidates can complete their training – or all that investment will be wasted.” Further sessions examined pathways to a more diverse workforce, inspired by PfP Thrive’s Cambridge University research, which found that underrepresentation has left a third of potential talent untapped. Lauren Courty AD of Homes and Building Safety for Sanctuary called for urgent action on digital skills, while Tom Langley of WPS and Liz O’Connor of Horton Housing urged the creation of consortiums to give smaller contractors a collective voice. Harry Flanaghan of Novus added that newcomers must be given time to learn: “It may cost more to employ an apprentice initially, but after four years they become fully fledged professionals.” Tom Arey, director of PfP Thrive, summed up: “We face not only a skills shortage, but a future skills gap in emerging technologies like air source heat pumps and solar installations. We have great carpenters and brilliant customer service teams, but too often those skills are siloed. PfP Thrive exists to bridge these gaps and build a workforce that is both technically excellent and service oriented.” As the day drew to a close, Jen Radcliffe reaffirmed the sector’s shared responsibility. “This event brought together the people who care deeply about housing’s future – and who are ready to act. The workforce crisis isn’t just a matter of unfilled vacancies; it’s about creating opportunities, investing in the right skills, and reflecting the diverse communities we serve. Today showed there is a genuine appetite for meaningful, joined up change.”

Devonshire Group welcomes new chief financial officer

Tess Egginton
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Devonshire Group welcomes new chief financial officer
The Devonshire Group has appointed Kathryn Fleming as its new chief financial officer, bringing over 30 years of senior financial leadership experience to the role. Kathryn joins at a time of continued growth for the Group, which spans heritage, hospitality, property, conservation and charitable activity across the UK and Ireland. A chartered accountant with an international career, Kathryn has held senior roles in both listed and privately owned organisations, including most recently as chief financial officer at global risk consultancy Control Risks. Originally from North Yorkshire, Kathryn is now returning to her roots as she leads the Group’s financial strategy. Speaking about the new role, Kathryn said: “The Devonshire Group is an interconnected ecosystem – every business, estate and initiative is united by a shared set of values and a long-term vision. “That’s what makes this opportunity so special. I’m excited to play my part in helping the Group continue to thrive with integrity, innovation and heart. “I’ve already had the chance to meet many brilliant people across the organisation and see the impact they’re making. My role is to ensure that we are financially confident, future-focused and ambitious in the right ways, creating space to explore new opportunities while protecting what matters. “In today’s world, standing still is one of the biggest risks. My job is not just to protect our legacy, but actively building on it in a sustainable, responsible and ambitious manner, with the communities we serve at heart.” Stephen Vickers, chief executive of the Devonshire Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kathryn to the team. She combines exceptional financial leadership with a deep appreciation of the Devonshire Group’s vision and values. “Kathryn has already made a strong start, listening, learning and engaging with people across the organisation. We look forward to the leadership and vision she will bring in the months and years ahead.”

Chamber urges MPs to revise Employment Rights Bill to support East Midlands businesses

April Lara
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Chamber urges MPs to revise Employment Rights Bill to support East Midlands businesses

The East Midlands Chamber has written to MPs, urging immediate amendments to the Employment Rights Bill currently progressing through Parliament. The Chamber argues that, in its present form, the Bill could impose additional financial strain on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still recovering from the impact of the 2024 Chancellor’s Budget and the new tax regime introduced in April.

The Chamber’s call comes as local businesses continue to report declining confidence, with recruitment attempts dropping by 7% over the past three quarters, as per the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey. There is also a notable 15% reduction in the expectation of profitability growth for the year ahead. Amid rising concerns over corporate tax, these developments indicate a fragile economic outlook for the region’s businesses.

East Midlands Chamber urges government action as unemployment rises to 5%

April Lara
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East Midlands Chamber urges government action as unemployment rises to 5%

The East Midlands Chamber has called for government action as unemployment in the region rises to 5%, exceeding the national average. The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show the regional unemployment rate is the highest since mid-2024, with an increase of 0.3% from the previous quarter.

The Chamber has emphasised the need for supportive policies to aid businesses, including amendments to the Employment Rights Bill currently under review in the House of Lords. They are also urging that further tax increases in the upcoming Autumn Budget do not burden businesses.

According to the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, only half of businesses in the region are actively recruiting, representing a 7% decline over the past three quarters. Additionally, expectations for workforce growth have fallen sharply, with only 20% anticipating an increase in staff numbers. This dip in recruitment efforts and growth expectations reflects broader concerns, including rising operational costs, such as higher National Insurance contributions and the increased national living wage.

The Chamber warns that these challenges, combined with soaring inflation at 3.6%, could further strain businesses, tiny and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Employment Rights Bill, if passed without amendments, is expected to introduce additional complexities around employment contracts and statutory sick pay, potentially leading to disputes and claims. The Chamber has urged policymakers to prioritise business needs and make necessary amendments to ensure the region’s firms can continue to thrive.

Great British Energy launches £10m funding for community facilities

April Lara
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Great British Energy launches £10m funding for community facilities

Great British Energy has unveiled a £10 million funding initiative aimed at reducing energy bills for community facilities across the UK. The funding, part of the government’s clean energy mission, will support a range of public buildings, including libraries, fire stations, care homes, and leisure centres, to cut energy costs and boost local economies.

The initiative will see mayoral authorities receive grants for clean energy projects, including rooftop solar installations on care homes in Merseyside, leisure centres in Yorkshire, and community buildings across Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. The projects are expected to generate £35 million in lifetime savings, enhance energy security, and create local employment opportunities.

In addition to solar panels, the grants will fund energy storage batteries and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, with a focus on enabling communities to store renewable energy and utilize it efficiently. The funding builds on Great British Energy’s ongoing efforts to reduce energy costs for public services, with solar panels already installed on 11 schools and plans to expand to 200 schools and hospitals.

The initiative aligns with the government’s broader mission to deliver cleaner, more affordable energy by 2030, contributing to long-term energy security and creating lasting economic benefits for communities.

Top tips for entering the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Tess Egginton
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Top tips for entering the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
With the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 drawing nearer, the time is now to make your nominations. Celebrating the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, this year’s highly-anticipated awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 2nd October at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in the Derek Randall Suite. Here are 5 top tips for a successful entry:
  1. Make your nomination compelling – focus on what sets your entry apart, highlighting a business or project’s unique impact and innovative aspects, detailing how it pushed boundaries, overcame problems or challenges, and achieved significant results.
  2. Less is more – as often judges have to read a large number of nomination forms, no one wants to read “waffle” or an excessive use of jargon in an award entry, so be concise and specific with what you write.
  3. Use facts, statistics and key examples that support why a project, person or business should win an award, as they will make any statement you make much stronger. Including supporting pictures, video or documents where appropriate is also welcome and can provide additional context and evidence of your achievements.
  4. Make sure to read the criteria carefully to be sure that your nomination does in fact fit what is being looked for. Why not reflect on last year’s winners to get an idea of whether your nomination reflects a certain category’s requirements.
  5. Finally, proofread your nomination and submit it in plenty of time!
If you haven’t submitted your entries for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 yet, now is the prime time to take this opportunity to showcase your business, team and projects. Nomination forms can be found here and entry is free – with finalists also winning free tickets to the awards ceremony. Alternatively, click on an individual link below to go straight to a specific category’s nomination form. Categories include:

Nominations will close on Friday 15th August.

A highlight in the business calendar, winners will be revealed at the East Midlands Bricks Awards’ 10th annual awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground – an evening of celebration and networking with property and construction professionals from across the East Midlands. Attendees will also hear from Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands – our keynote speaker.

Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025, click here to secure yours.

Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the exceptional companies and projects in our region.

New for this year, all entrants will also have the opportunity to be featured on our dedicated nominee showcase on the East Midlands Business Link website, providing space for marketing your achievements.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                        

To be held at:

Nottingham College forms strategic partnership with DeWalt

April Lara
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Nottingham College forms strategic partnership with DeWalt

Nottingham College has teamed up with DeWalt, a leading UK power tool brand, to provide construction students with valuable industry exposure. The collaboration will support over 100 students across carpentry, joinery, plumbing, and automotive courses, offering hands-on workshops, technical demonstrations, and significant equipment donations.

This partnership aligns with Nottingham College’s commitment to strengthening industry ties. The college’s Basford campus, recently enhanced by the £6 million Construction Skills Centre, is further supported by DeWalt’s contribution, adding to the resources available for students. The college is also investing in its Green Skills Centre to prepare students for careers in renewable technologies.

The partnership aims to bridge the gap between education and the construction sector, which is focused on delivering the UK government’s ambitious housing targets. This initiative will equip students with the latest tools and real-world insights to ensure they are ready for the demands of the trade upon graduation.

Nottingham to pilot innovative public restaurant model to tackle food inequality

April Lara
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Nottingham to pilot innovative public restaurant model to tackle food inequality

A new initiative in Nottingham aims to explore the potential of public restaurants to enhance public health by offering affordable, high-quality meals. The project, part of the UKRI-funded DISHED initiative, will see the opening of two pilot public restaurants in Nottingham and Dundee by spring 2026. These restaurants aim to provide accessible, nutritious meals sourced locally, supporting sustainable farming practices and meeting the needs of diverse communities.

The project is a collaboration among the Institute of Development Studies, the University of Nottingham, Nourish Scotland, the University of Sussex, and local partners. It is designed to address the rising challenge of food inequality in the UK, in line with the NHS 10-year plan.

Although public restaurants are not a new concept, the revival of this model in the UK is unique, building on the success of similar initiatives in countries such as Brazil and Poland. These establishments, which will be co-designed with local residents, aim to provide affordable meals that promote healthy eating habits while fostering a sense of community.

Running for 14 months, the pilot will be evaluated for its effectiveness in improving public health and reducing food insecurity. Research will also examine the potential environmental and economic impacts of the model, aiming to offer insights into how public restaurants can contribute to better well-being and a more sustainable food system.

Through this initiative, the project aims to demonstrate the value of providing accessible, healthy food as a public service, comparable to libraries or parks, and the role it can play in enhancing community well-being and public health.

Funding secured for Derbyshire solar power project

Tess Egginton
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Funding secured for Derbyshire solar power project
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, has secured £700,000 of grant funding from the Government’s Mayoral Renewables Fund to build a solar farm in Derbyshire. The Mayoral Renewables Fund from the recently formed Great British Energy aims to support Combined Authorities across England to deliver priority renewable energy generation projects on their own estates. Derbyshire County Council will use the £700,000 to develop a 2MW solar farm on reclaimed land that was part of the Williamthorpe Colliery, a former coal mine near Chesterfield. The installation of the project is due to be completed in Spring 2026. The site will generate around 1.9 million kWh per year which is enough energy to power over 700 homes annually, based on average UK households. The energy generated on the solar farm will be exported to the grid and will reduce Derbyshire County Council’s energy bills by more than £100,000 per year. Over the project lifetime, it is expected to save the council more than £3m. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “I’m spearheading a green industrial revolution here in the East Midlands to protect future generations from the impacts of the climate crisis. Last year, we said farewell to the use of coal in our region, and we’re now transitioning to become a clean energy powerhouse, with solar being an important part of the energy mix. “Our approach to tackling the climate crisis presents a huge opportunity for our communities. We’re creating a region that is more resilient and sustainable, which will support everyone who lives in the region to thrive. “As Mayor, I’m putting national net zero policy into practice on a local level by securing this funding – and this is just the start of our productive relationship with Great British Energy.”

IMA Apprentice named finalist in Enterprising Women Awards

Tess Egginton
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IMA Apprentice named finalist in Enterprising Women Awards
IMA Architects’ Sofia Coviello has been named as an Apprentice of the Year Finalist in the East Midlands Chamber Enterprising Women Awards. The Apprentice of the Year category recognises female apprentices working towards or having recently completed an apprenticeship in the past 12 months. This award is an acknowledgement of an apprentice’s commitment and ability to make a difference within the organisation they work in. Sofia joined IMA Architects in March 2021 and has since experienced substantial personal and professional growth. Shortly after joining the IMA team, Sofia commenced the Level 7 Architectural Apprenticeship with the University of Nottingham. Balancing full-time professional responsibilities with the demands of academic study has been one of her most significant yet rewarding challenges. This rigorous dual commitment has helped her to manage multiple complex responsibilities, which have been instrumental in shaping her into a more well-rounded practitioner. As an apprentice at IMA, Sofia has progressed from supportive roles to leading design packages and managing client relationships. She has also taken a proactive role in supporting professional development across the practice through lunch-and-learn sessions and developing how-to-guides to help colleagues navigate evolving architectural tools and methodologies. Alongside her academic development, Sofia’s professional experience at IMA has included contributing to the design and delivery of large-scale distribution centres, including multiple Lidl RDCs and a new cold-store facility for a leading UK-based frozen meal company. IMA Architects have also been involved in the delivery of data centres in the UK, for which Sofia has taken a key role, working directly with contractors in a sector that is rapidly expanding due to the demands of digital infrastructure. Talking about her apprenticeship and reflecting on the shortlisting, Sofia said: “The apprenticeship route at IMA has provided me with invaluable opportunities that would not have been available through a traditional educational pathway. “It has enabled me to become qualified whilst gaining extensive practical experience, and to develop a robust network of industry professionals. Moreover, it has given me the confidence to assume leadership responsibilities and advocate for progress – whether through sustainable practice, digital transformation, or promoting inclusivity in the construction industry. “Each of these achievements has contributed to my development as a competent and forward-thinking aspiring architect. I am very happy to have been named a finalist for the Enterprising Women Apprentice of the Year award for East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire). I’m excited for the future and am immensely grateful for the apprenticeship journey that has prepared me for the next stage in my professional career.” The Enterprising Women Awards 2025 celebrate and showcase the successes of women in business that have taken place in the East Midlands region over the past year. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 26th September at Winstanley House in Leicester.
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