The National Retrofit Hub has released the Regional Retrofit Skills Taskforce Checklist, a new tool to support regional bodies in tackling the demand for at least 200,000, new entrants to the workforce as well as a substantial upskilling effort across the country.
The checklist serves as a comprehensive guide to help regional authorities develop robust skills plans, facilitating stronger connections between retrofit delivery and economic development programmes, says the organisation.
It acknowledges the crucial role of convening housing providers, training providers, and retrofit employers—both large and small—in adopting a ‘system-wide’ approach. By ensuring that businesses and training providers understand the local pipeline of retrofit work, the checklist aims to facilitate the seamless transition of learners into job roles.
The checklist considers how procurement can be leveraged to increase training and job opportunities, engagement tactics for local SME construction and building services firms, and initiatives to encourage individuals of all ages and backgrounds to pursue careers in the retrofit sector.
Rachael Owens, Co-director of the National Retrofit Hub, said: “The release of the Regional Retrofit Skills Taskforce Checklist demonstrates our commitment to supporting regional initiatives. By equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools and strategies, we empower communities to drive meaningful change towards a sustainable future.”
Cara Jenkinson, Cities Manager at Ashden and Co-Chair of Working Group 3, who led the development of this document with contributions from Working Group 3 task and finish group members, said: “We are excited to introduce the Regional Retrofit Skills Taskforce Checklist, a vital resource in our collective efforts towards achieving net zero emissions.
“By fostering collaboration and strategic planning at the regional level, we aim to accelerate progress towards our shared sustainability goals.”
The checklist can be downloaded at https://nationalretrofithub.org.uk/knowledge-hub/regional-retrofit-skills-taskforce-checklist/
