Did you know that the government has added new construction roles to the shortage occupation list? Carry on reading to find out which roles are now included, and what this means for the construction industry.
What is the Home Office’s shortage occupation list?
The Home Office's Shortage Occupation List is a compilation of occupations and job roles that are currently facing a shortage of skilled workers in the UK. Jobs included on this list are typically exempt from certain immigration restrictions, making it easier for employers to hire overseas workers to fill these roles. Overall it exists to ensure skills gaps in key industries are addressed promptly and effectively.
Which roles have been added?
Bricklayers and masons
Carpenters and joiners
Roofers, roof tilers and slaters
Plasterers (including dryliners)
Those in construction and building trades not elsewhere classified
What does this mean for the construction sector?
While the opening doors to a global talent pool will keep the construction sector ticking along, there are concerns that this move will also lend itself to illegal workforces (e.g. large companies not checking right to work status’ etc.).
Kevin Barker, director at SL&V, said: “Some of the primary construction companies now need to have a modern-slavery statement in place”,
“They’re supposed to be ensuring that there’s an ethical labour supply. And many of them are writing this into their contracts with the subcontractors,” he adds.
“Often we find larger companies are not checking that right-to-work checks are being completed by the subcontractor, therefore it’s allowing those illegal workers to infiltrate through the subcontractor model from the lower levels.”
What are the positives?
Kirsty Moore, a Senior Associate at Fragomen advising construction companies and contractors said: “The update follows a review of shortages in the construction sector by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
“The review made clear the reasons that immigration is considered a suitable short-term response to shortages: evidence of sector-wide initiatives to improve recruitment and retention in the longer term, together with the strategic importance of construction work to the UK’s economy. The intention is to make it easier for construction businesses to access overseas workers by sponsoring them to come to the UK.”
Construction firms and contractors are advised to take prompt action should they intend to hire from overseas as visa fees and the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge, paid during visa application for access to the NHS, are anticipated to rise.
“The Government has said that public sector pay increases will be funded by increases to visa application fees of between 15-20% and the Immigration Health Surcharge of 66%. There is currently no indication of timeframe and there may be very little warning, so where practical, it may be sensible for applications to be submitted sooner rather than later.”
Looking for a new role in construction? Give Pillar a call on 0203 856 4048 today to find ouit how we can help.
Please note we are sadly unable to offer sponsorships to overseas candidates at this current time.
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