CIOB aims to help ex-offenders build a career in construction
The barriers faced by ex-offenders looking to kick-start their lives with a career in construction are at the centre of a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) survey.
CIOB is appealing to built environment professionals to take part in its latest research study, promoting the possibility of reducing the industry-wide skills shortage by working alongside the prison system.
Several companies are already adding ex-offenders to their workforce through training and employment and CIOB wants more firms to follow suit – particularly given the social value and opportunities the construction industry can offer for people who may find it challenging to find employment after finishing their prison sentence.
Niamh Evans, Policy and Public Affairs Officer North, said: “It is no secret that the construction industry faces a nationwide skills shortage in the UK.
“Industry figures suggest an extra 224,900 people need to be recruited in construction jobs by 2027, or an average of 44,980 a year if the sector is to meet expected demand.
“Our survey aims to assess whether construction companies currently employ ex-offenders, understand their perception of this work, and gain insight into the barriers they face in recruiting ex-offenders.
Anyone who responds to the survey will be given the chance to enter into a prize draw and snap up a £75 Amazon voucher.
Niamh continued: “We’re looking for a wide range of respondents from across the construction industry to help shape our research.
“Whether you or the business you represent has experience in recruiting ex-offenders or not is irrelevant as we’re keen to understand a mixture of views.”
To take part in CIOB’s research study, visit: www.ciob.me/exoffender
The closing date for responses is Friday 29 September.
This article appears on the CIOB news and blog site as "CIOB aims to help ex-offenders build a career in construction" dated September 1, 2023.
--CIOB
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Apprenticeships for prisoners.
- Building back better with apprenticeships.
- Construction apprenticeships.
- Ex-offender Community.
- Industry work placement.
- Projects deliver meaningful change at young offenders institution.
- Non-residential institution.
- Residential institution.
- Secure residential institution.
- Tackling the construction skills shortage.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The real barrier to getting more value from digital technology.
Your guide to The Construction Reset at UKCW Birmingham.
Accommodating the Victorian and Edwardian working woman. Book review.
Rethinking passive fire protection in design
PFP demands the same level of design rigour as structure or services.
38% of Gen Zs feel safe when a fire door is wedged open.
Stunning images from around the world
Shortlist for CIOB’s Art of Building photography competition.
Guidance for conversion of traditional pre-1919 stone buildings.
Industrial heritage in the Ruhr
A marked difference to the fate of industrial landscapes in the UK.
Communities will be able to build their own clean energy.
Why diversity and inclusion matters for SMEs
CIOB’s D&I Charter shows how practical changes can support long-term growth.
Cut electricity bills to power growth
Coalition sends joint letter to the Chancellor.
Gasholders: a history in pictures. Book review.