NFB launches work placement directory to strengthen construction skills pipeline

By Danny BallPublished On: August 3rd, 2026Categories: News, Top Stories

The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has launched a new Work Placement Directory designed to improve access to construction work placements by connecting learners, colleges and training providers with employers across the UK.

The online directory enables users to search participating NFB member companies by location and area of expertise, view business profiles and submit enquiries directly through the NFB website.

The initiative has been developed to help address one of the construction sector’s ongoing skills challenges by making it easier for learners to gain practical industry experience.

Directory aims to improve access to construction work experience

The Work Placement Directory was created following discussions between the NFB, CarringtonLIME Heritage Skills Training CIC and federation members about the difficulties learners face when securing work placements, particularly within specialist trades such as heritage construction.

The launch also supports recommendations outlined in CITB’s The Industry Picture, which identified improved access to work placements as an important step in tackling long-term skills shortages across the construction industry.

James Butcher, Deputy Chief Executive of the NFB, said: “We know that the Government has a strong focus on improving access to work placements, and that training providers and industry are calling for better connectivity between learners and employers. The NFB’s Work Placement Directory is a practical solution that does just that.

“We are proud to offer our members services that support their businesses and respond to the challenges facing the construction sector.

We hope to continue to grow this service, expanding its impact on wider industry, and creating more opportunities for learners and employers.”

Industry backs initiative to support future workforce

The directory has received support from training providers and industry organisations, with the aim of helping more learners gain practical experience while providing employers with opportunities to engage future talent.

Kate Kerslake of CarringtonLIME Heritage Skills Training CIC said: “This directory is a fantastic resource for anyone starting a career in the construction and heritage skills sector. For our lime plastering students, finding opportunities to gain hands-on experience after training can be one of the biggest challenges.

“Having a dedicated directory of companies that are actively open to offering work experience helps bridge that gap, giving learners the chance to build confidence, develop their skills on real projects, and take the next step towards a rewarding career.

“It’s a positive initiative that benefits both new entrants to the industry and the businesses looking to nurture the next generation of skilled craftspeople.”

Marcus Bennett, Head of Analysis & Forecasting at CITB, added: “Our intention with the Industry Picture is to make clear to our industry the significant trends and challenges we are facing but also that these are opportunities where action can have a positive long term-impact. When we work together, we have the power to create a more prosperous future for construction companies but also build better and more efficiently.

“Enabling more people to join construction is essential, so I am delighted that one of the most influential voices for our industry – the NFB – has picked up the gauntlet and is showing what is possible with its Work Placement Directory for learners.

“Even more fantastic is that NFB members are signing up and offering placements and experience for those considering a career in construction. That will start to put in place the workforce of the future who will be building and maintaining the homes, schools, healthcare facilities and infrastructure that we know we need for generations to come.”

The NFB said it intends to expand the directory over time, creating more opportunities for construction employers to offer work placements while helping learners gain the practical experience needed to enter the industry.