Kevin Wellman, Cheif Executive Officer, has issued a statement, responding to Alan Milburn's recent report regarding reforms for young people's next steps.
“Alan Milburn’s report on the number of young people not in education, employment or training released today (28th May), highlights an issue which the plumbing and heating sector has warned of for some time. The number of people entering training or employment is simply not keeping pace with those leaving or retiring from the profession.
“With around 1 in 10 young people now economically inactive, Milburn is correct that this is now a moral crisis which needs decisive, national action. The report’s warning that young people not in education, employment or training are costing the UK economy an estimated £125 billion annually, more than the country spends on education each year, underlines the scale and urgency of the challenge.
“Reform of the apprenticeship system must be a priority. Many apprenticeship routes have become too complex, difficult to deliver, and do not always reflect how many businesses operate in practice. Employers and training providers have repeatedly raised concerns around the length of the qualification and the complexity of assessments, which create barriers for both businesses and learners.
“We need clearer, more accessible vocational pathways into the industry. Introducing a Level 2 plumbing apprenticeship, for example, could provide an important entry point for many learners while helping employers bring new talent into the sector more effectively.
“There is also a clear case for technical careers to be given the same prominence as traditional, academic routes for school leavers. Skilled trades offer long-term, rewarding careers with genuine progression opportunities.
“A shortage of qualified plumbing and heating professionals also has wider implications for housing delivery, public health, water efficiency and the transition to low-carbon heating systems.
“Without meaningful reform and greater investment in vocational education, workforce shortages across the sector and wider economy will continue to deepen.
“Milburn’s report is a welcome intervention and presents an important opportunity to deliver the reforms that are urgently needed. Failing to act now risks letting down a generation of young people who are still feeling the long-term repercussions of the disruption that the COVID pandemic has had on their education, training and early career opportunities.”