A considerate industry – so is our job done?

Edward Hardy
Chief Executive
Considerate Constructors scheme

We’ve come a long way from wolf-whistles and cowboy builders.

The reputation of the construction industry has to be one of the most vigorously transformed and today professional practice, ethics and protocol are the cornerstones on which the sector is founded.

The Considerate Constructors Scheme’s aim is to improve the image of the construction industry. We’ve worked tirelessly for the past 17 years to implement our Code of Considerate Practice and target three key areas where the industry needed to improve; in building relationships with local communities and the general public, protecting the environment and valuing our workforce.

For many, the production of the Government’s Construction 2025 manifesto was the cherry on top; a clear signal that UK construction is a priority sector and one in which the Government identifies great economic prosperity. Working with our Scheme Supporters – a group of leading organisations in the field of construction – we are collaboratively aiming to meet the objectives of the Government’s strategy.

But where to from here? With so much positive gain isn’t our job done? Far from it. Not only is there the question of maintaining our high standards, but now our sector is addressing industry-wide issues such as community relations and site appearance, we can begin focusing on the future; namely attracting and motivating the next generation.

The next generation of construction workers, regardless of job title or responsibility, will be the first to enter into a wholly professional and respected industry – 20 years ago there was a perception that construction was for the un-skilled. The career prospects today are great and it’s starting to get noticed. A career in construction resembles making a difference to people’s standards of living, providing opportunity, building on the growth and prosperity of the UK and working with the public. For many it’s a career in which logical thinking and good communications skills are essential alongside robust training and the theory to support it.

We’re actively encouraging building companies to engage with the next generation by building relationships with schools and colleges, taking on apprenticeships and, for us, promoting how credible and rewarding the construction industry is to be part of.

Without the positive reputation we couldn’t whet the appetite of the next generation. As an industry, construction is in its strongest reputational position yet and now we’re here, phase two is to motivate, inspire and attract quality candidates.

This, after all, will enable us to grow professional practice in the minds of those at the start of their career to ensure they take it with them all the way to the top.

Contributor: Edward Hardy is CEO of The Considerate Constructors Scheme; a non-profit-making, independent organisation founded in 1997 by the construction industry to improve its image. For more information visit www.ccscheme.org.uk