PfP respond to Checkatrade report

New research from Checkatrade shows British tradespeople are optimistic about the future of their businesses (72%). 

Indeed, tradespeople have shown they are among the UK’s most entrepreneurial workers, with nine-in-every-ten (90%) stating they either want to set up their own business or co-own their firm. But their latest study reveals major barriers are preventing the UK’s 900,000 plumbers, roofers, and carpenters from growing their businesses.

Seven in ten (71%) tradespeople say that skills shortages are stopping them from expanding, while eight in ten (79%) struggle to grow as a result of the rising costs of materials and tools.  

It’s another example of why organisations like PfP Thrive, need to exist. PfP Thrive, Managing Director, Tom Arey comments on the latest findings: 

“This report reflects what we see every day in our work training the next generation of skilled construction workers. Tradespeople are ambitious, resilient, and ready to grow – yet rising costs, bureaucracy, and skills shortages are clearly holding them back.  

"It’s especially timely that this data comes out during UK Construction Week, when the spotlight is on our sector and the vital role tradespeople play in the UK economy.

"That 72% of tradespeople still feel confident about the future is a real sign of their determination and reports like this should inspire all of us in the sector to support them in training and upskilling. For me and my colleagues at PfP Thrive, that means providing fast, high-quality training and apprenticeship opportunities so tradespeople have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to grow their businesses, embrace new sectors like retrofit and decarbonisation, and help shape the future of our industry.”