Downturn in work for small building companies, FMB warns

Small building companies are reporting falling workloads, material costs going up, and a shortage of available workers, according to the latest State of Trade Survey Q3 2024 from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, comments, “The FMB’s latest State of Trade Survey for Q3 20024 reveals a challenging economic climate for small building companies across the UK with 32% of FMB members reporting falling workloads over the past quarter. Enquiries are also down, as is employment, with over a third of members struggling to recruit bricklayers and carpenters. “What is concerning is that the poor numbers reported by builders seem to be here to stay as they have been a constant throughout 2024. The last time such a negative trend was reported was in the years following the financial crisis of 2008. “The Government missed a key opportunity in the October Budget to announce serious funding to tackle the skills crisis in Britain while tax rises, such as the increase to employers’ National Insurance contributions, creates additional barriers with firms already struggling to recruit staff. The Government needs to prioritise boosting construction skills if it is serious about having a high-quality construction industry capable of delivering the ambitious housebuilding targets it has set out.” The FMB State of Trade Survey for Q3 2024 found: Market conditions • Workloads are down 7% on the previous quarter • 32% of members reported a decline in workloads, with 41% seeing no change • Enquiries are down 3% on Q2 of 2024 • Employment over Q3 of 2024 has declined once again, seeing a 4% on the second quarter • The most common type of work for an FMB member were renovations and major works Skills • 23% of members reported a decrease in the number of employees, which is similar to Q2 (24%) but lower than Q1 2024 (28%) • 35% of members are struggling to hire carpenters, down from 41% in Q2 2024 • 28% are struggling to hire bricklayers, down slightly from 29% in the previous quarter • Difficulties in recruiting general labourers have substantially increased according to 34% of members, up from 26% in Q2 2024. Challenges hiring roofers have increased from 13% to 16%, and painters and decorators from 11% to 13% • 38% of members have reported that a shortage of skilled tradespeople has resulted in job delays Changes in prices and costs • Approximately 65% of members indicated that rising costs led to higher prices for their services, a slight decrease from 67% in Q2 2024 • 54% of members who experienced rising costs reported lower-than-expected business profits or financial losses, a slight increase from 52% in the previous quarter • 26% of respondents said that cost pressures have caused them to restrict their recruitment plans, a slight increase from 22% in Q2 2024. Around 10% revealed that their business viability was compromised, putting them at risk of closure. For more from FMB, click here.

Breathing Buildings supports World Ventil8 Day

Breathing Buildings, a provider of controlled natural and hybrid ventilation systems, is celebrating the upcoming World Ventilation Day (#WorldVentil8Day). World Ventil8 Day aims to raise awareness of the importance of ventilation as a crucial part of enabling health and wellbeing of people. Taking place on 8 November 2024, World Ventil8 Day was initiated by a group of researchers and professional bodies who are passionate about the importance of ventilation. This year, the theme is ‘Enabling Action’ and it aims to spread the word about all that is good in ventilation and how to help people to improve ventilation in their buildings whether it be a home, a school, a workplace or a social space. It also aims to highlight ventilation's role in healthy buildings and a healthy life. Breathing Buildings is keen to support World Ventil8 Day. Since the company was founded, it has been dedicated to energy efficient ventilation which improves indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort. Prior to the pandemic there was already an increasing awareness of how indoor environments impact our health and wellbeing. In the UK, ventilation guidance for schools already existed in the form of Building Bulletin 101 (BB101). The last revision, the 2018 edition of BB101, ‘Guidelines on ventilation, thermal comfort and indoor air quality in schools’ looks at the key design elements of modern ventilation systems in schools. The document sets out requirements for schools to improve ventilation to create a healthy and comfortable environment that will help improve children's learning outcomes. Louise McHugh, Product Manager at Breathing Buildings, comments, “Breathing Buildings is delighted to support this year’s World Ventil8 Day. Since it was founded, Breathing Buildings has been committed to energy efficient ventilation that improves IAQ and thermal comfort. Over the years, we have helped a raft of schools improve their learning environments. “Providing excellent thermal comfort and enhanced IAQ, our hybrid ventilation is designed to suit a diverse range of commercial and public buildings with high heat gains, such as schools, colleges, leisure centres, offices, theatres and even churches. Our latest innovation, the NVHRe, raises the bar on energy efficient ventilation, marking the next step in hybrid ventilation technology.” Breathing Buildings is committed to improving IAQ and enabling action by helping schools improve their ventilation and indoor environments. For example, Breathing Buildings supplied ventilation to High Point Academy, a secondary school for students with complex learning difficulties in Wednesbury, West Midlands. The 90-pupil school features classrooms that are designed to be safe and calming for autistic pupils, and includes a range of specialist rooms that enhance the children’s experience. In addition to this specialist learning environment, the two-storey school benefits from Breathing Buildings’ NVHR (Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling) hybrid ventilation units that help provide good indoor air quality and keep the school warm in winter and cool in summer. This boosts comfort and health which is essential for the pupils’ learning and wellbeing. But it is not only schools that can benefit from hybrid ventilation technology. For example, Breathing Buildings supplied ventilation to ECO MEP’s carbon negative headquarters in Ashford, Kent. Recently purchasing the building, ECO MEP is a mechanical and electrical contractor that focuses on delivering lean, sustainable solutions to commercial clients. In line with these values, its objective was to ensure its own new offices were a beacon of sustainability, and so specified Breathing Buildings’ innovative NVHRe Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling and Heat Recovery to provide energy efficient ventilation. - Breathing Buildings’ NVHRe recently won ‘Commercial/ Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year’ category at the prestigious HVR Awards 2024. Breathing Buildings is currently shortlisted in the Energy Saving Awards and the ECN Awards for supplying ventilation to the ECO MEP project. For more from Breathing Buildings, click here.

EV Chargepoint Registry to be decommissioned

The National Chargepoint Registry (NCR), which serves as the UK’s open database for public electric vehicle (EV) chargepoint information, will be decommissioned on 28 November 2024. This change is part of the UK Government's initiative to transition to an enhanced, centralised EV chargepoint platform. As part of this transition, no new data will be accepted into the NCR after 11 November 2024. Since 2011, the National Chargepoint Registry (NCR) has provided a dependable source of open data on EV charge points. This resource supports developers, local authorities, and industry leaders by offering accessible information on the locations, connector types, and operational hours of charge points across the UK. This data has fuelled growth in both the public and private sectors, empowering mobility providers, app developers, and urban planners to enhance EV adoption and improve infrastructure development. Following the decommissioning of the NCR, a new government-led database will enhance data capabilities, including live data capture, to better support the growing electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. This development will provide businesses, consumers, and local authorities with opportunities for real-time services and more integrated EV solutions. Cenex, the UK’s Centre of Excellence for low carbon and fuel cell technologies, was appointed by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to manage the NCR in 2017, during which time it has grown from around 3,800 chargepoints to over 63,000 today. In collaboration with Apetrel Systems, Cenex has maintained and improved the NCR as a trusted resource within the UK's Open Data initiative. The archived NCR data will remain accessible to users and researchers after 28 November, ensuring the continuity of vital information and reflecting the Registry’s legacy in advancing the nation’s EV journey. Jacob Roberts, Senior Policy & Strategy Consultant, Cenex, comments, “We are proud of the NCR’s role in supporting the UK’s EV revolution. The growth in EV infrastructure it has documented is a testament to the dedication of the entire industry, from local governments to private sector innovators. We look forward to the advancements this next-generation data platform will bring for the zero-emission future.” For more from Cenex, click here.

Trilux Group announces acquisition of Ansorg

The TRILUX Group, a provider of innovative lighting solutions, has announced its successful acquisition of Ansorg. With this latest merger, TRILUX will expand its product and service portfolio in the retail sector, strengthening its position in this strategically important market segment. The acquisition is an important step in TRILUX's growth strategy and enables the company to tap into new customer segments and expand its presence in international markets. Ansorg, based in Mülheim, Germany, is a renowned specialist for high-quality retail lighting concepts and has decades of experience in developing and producing custom lighting solutions. By integrating Ansorg, TRILUX can expand its expertise, particularly in international growth areas such as automotive and non-food retail, offering its customers even more innovative solutions with real added value. "The acquisition of Ansorg is a key milestone in our 'Retail Growth' strategy," says Hubertus Volmert, CEO of the TRILUX Group. "With Ansorg, we are not only gaining a company with excellent expertise and experience, but also broadening our range to include customised lighting solutions. Together, we can tap into new customer segments, strengthen our international presence and actively shape the future of retail lighting." Franz Heckmanns, Head of Global Sales at Ansorg, adds: "We are delighted to become part of the TRILUX family and to contribute our in-depth retail expertise to the development of innovative lighting solutions. This partnership leverages our complementary strengths, allowing us to deliver even more customised, future-proof lighting solutions to our customers. "Ansorg brings valuable expertise and creative insights to the TRILUX Group, which will further strengthen its innovative power. For Ansorg, the partnership not only means access to greater resources and a global network but also the opportunity to set new standards in the retail sector with TRILUX." Ansorg will collaborate closely with Oktalite, another company of the TRILUX Group. While Ansorg focuses on custom lighting concepts for premium brands and specialist retailers, Oktalite has extensive experience in implementing lighting solutions for chain stores and large-scale retail concepts. The complementary focus of the two companies enables them to serve a broader international customer spectrum and jointly realise opportunities in various retail sectors. The next steps will be carefully planned in collaboration to ensure a seamless transition for both customers and employees. TRILUX places great importance in continuing Ansorg's successful business activities and retaining the expertise of its employees. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. For more from TRILUX, click here.

Ovia welcomes new Regional Sales Manager

Ovia, part of Scolmore Group, has welcomed Mark Humphry as its new Regional Sales Manager overseeing the Midlands area. Mark joins Ovia following eight years working in the electrical industry, where he held a number of key sales roles with several leading players in the lighting and electrical sectors. His extensive background has equipped him with the insights and expertise necessary to make his mark as Regional Sales Manager at Ovia. In his new position, Mark will lead the company’s regional sales strategy, focusing on driving sales growth and expanding Ovia's market presence, leveraging his experience to build strong relationships with key customers. “We are excited to welcome Mark to the team,” says Mike Collins, Managing Director of Ovia. “His expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction make him the ideal leader to support our regional growth and foster new partnerships that will drive the success of our clients. We are confident that Mark will be instrumental in achieving our goals in the Midlands region.” Mark states, “I am thrilled to join Ovia and contribute to a company known for its innovation and dedication to quality. I look forward to working with our talented team and valued customers to further our shared vision of sustainable, efficient lighting solutions.” For more from Ovia, click here.

AI-powered air source heat pump unveiled

Wondrwall, a cleantech business based in Manchester, has unveiled a new, intelligent heat pump system. Utilising cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence, the company claims that the new heat pump can deliver significant carbon and cost savings for homeowners. Wondrwall says the innovation has the potential to be "game-changing" for both homeowners and housebuilders, and that it will redefine what is thought possible in terms of low carbon energy efficiency. In a first for the company, which had previously prioritised infrared and direct-electrical heating systems, the Wondrwall air source heat pump provides homes with efficient heating and cooling technology. Energy efficiencies are generated and comfort maintained through the integration of the heat pump with Wondrwall’s AI-powered Home Energy Management System (HEMS). Sensor technology within the Wondrwall system allows the HEMS to learn the thermal performance of the home, typical energy use and user preferences in order to adapt flow temperatures and heating schedules based on occupancy and user behaviours. To enable industry-wide collaboration and support the rollout of low carbon heating solutions in new build homes at scale, Wondrwall is also opening up its proprietary technologies to other heat pump manufacturers. Specifically, its HEMS system will be available for other heat pump manufacturers to integrate with, creating the potential for intelligent homes that go beyond ‘smart’ and efficient homes irrespective of your preferred supplier. Daniel Burton, CEO at Wondrwall, says, “Our new intelligent heat pump system has the potential to be a real game-changer for the industry. By launching our first heat pump, we are working to ensure our HEMS solution is aligned with prevailing industry standards. “Not only are we launching a best-in-class new heat pump that generates impressive energy efficiencies, but we are setting a benchmark for collaboration with manufacturers in order to have a truly transformative effect on the UK’s new build homes. “We want to see Wondrwall’s amazing AI technology bring about major carbon savings and will develop the products the industry needs to see that happen.” Trials undertaken by Wondrwall, in collaboration with the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, found that in an average new-build home using the Wondrwall solution to control the heat pump reduced energy bills by 87% when compared to the same home with just the heat pump alone. The heat pump delivers grid flexibility, matching energy needs to grid needs without impact on the homeowner and reducing downtime. The unveiling of the heat pump comes weeks before the Future Homes Standard is fully adopted, which aims to rapidly increase the building performance of new homes in the UK. The Future Homes Standard aims to ensure new homes built from 2025 produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than those constructed under the current regulations. Dependent on building fabric, homes with Wondrwall’s heat pump and HEMS solution will achieve a net zero rating with zero carbon emissions. The launch of the heat pump follows hot on the heels of Wondrwall’s Energy Services Contract (ESC) product, allowing housebuilders and homeowners to eliminate the ‘green premium’ and install solar PV, battery storage and EV charging points with no upfront cost. Mark Lufkin, Chief Product Officer at Wondrwall, notes, “On its own, this heat pump has multiple benefits for homeowners and housebuilders. From its quiet operation to its adaptive start/stop technology, we expect it to be a hit with those looking to achieve cost savings and energy efficiencies that exceed current Future Homes Standard performance. “The results from the DESNZ trial were very promising, reducing energy bills by 80% compared to homes with just a standard heat pump. We felt we could do better though with closer integration of the heat pump and the rest of the Wondrwall solution. “With the launch of this new heat pump, we aim to demonstrate the art of the possible when it comes to heat pump energy efficiency. However, opening up our API to other manufacturers will mean that all heat pump manufacturers will also be able to benefit from the AI-powered savings Wondrwall’s HEMS can offer. “This is a first for us, and the industry, and we are very encouraged by the interest generated so far.” For more from Wondrwall, click here.

New Glasgow premises for Sangamo

Following almost 75 years in operation at its Port Glasgow site, time switches and heating control specialist, Sangamo, has moved its operation to new, more modern premises for its manufacturing facilities and distribution centre, occupying a prime location in close proximity to Glasgow and the airport. The new building, situated at Air Cargo Centre, Paisley, has been completely redesigned to accommodate Sangamo’s specific requirements. The new facilities include a manufacturing and production base, warehousing, office space and a purpose designed showroom which showcases not only the Sangamo range, but products from across the Scolmore Group of companies. Sangamo was acquired as a new business by Scolmore Group in 2018 and added to the ESP product portfolio. The company’s origins, however, actually date back more than 100 years. The company was founded in 1921 under the name British Sangamo - as the UK subsidiary of the Sangamo Electric Co. of Springfield, Illinois - and operated from its site in Ponders End, Middlesex, manufacturing kilowatt hour meters and later expanding its activities to include industrial time switches.  For over 70 years, Sangamo has been manufacturing Round Pattern Time Switches to the same high standard that was first achieved back in the 1950s. With over 11 million units sold to date, the installation of a Sangamo Round Pattern Time Switch (RPTS) used to be a regular job for many electricians. Despite the electro-mechanical time switches being less common today, the company still reports sales of thousands of units each year, both as replacements and as brand new installations. Today, Sangamo offers a wide range of time switches and heating controls for domestic, commercial and industrial use. Its time switches range comprises 37 different products within four main groups, whilst the heating controls range includes programmers, thermostats – wireless and Wi-Fi versions – immersion controllers and economy 7 controllers. Since adding Sangamo to its product portfolio, ESP has developed the range to offer installers and wholesalers a comprehensive range of timers and heating control solutions. With two key elements continuing to impact the sector - rapid technological development, and the desire to keep energy costs to a minimum - ESP continues to invest across the range to ensure it can offer products which harness the latest technologies and which maximise energy saving features. This latest investment in its new premises is further testament to ESP’s commitment to supporting the Sangamo business, along with the customers and contractors it serves. For more from Sangamo, click here.

Five firms enter solar market following training programme

A new training programme has led to five new solar installers entering the green technologies supply chain, to help deliver Greater Manchester’s transition to net zero. The initiative, developed by Green Economy and MCS - in partnership with the Installation Assurance Authority, Trafford and Stockport College Group, Solar Energy UK, Waxman Energy, Atlantic Renewables, Etoto Media, NPS Atlantic and BPEC - launched a pilot programme on 21 October offering a week’s training and a host of additional benefits to support new entry to the solar market. The programme has been developed in order to grow the UK solar market, which will need to increase by five times its present value to achieve the UK Government’s target of 70GW of solar power by 2035. Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, says, “Renewable technologies like solar panels and heat pumps play a vital role in helping to deliver the UK’s net zero transition, but as demand for home-grown energy increases, we need to ensure the number of qualified installers also grows alongside it. “Customers need to be confident in the technologies and the installers they work with, so this programme is designed to ensure that businesses meet the required MCS standards, and it also helps them to build a credible, long-term business. This is important for making sure the value from the net zero transition is retained locally.” Amy House, Director of Green Economy, adds, “The Installer Accelerator programme is distinctive from other training offers, because it gives participants the technical skills, with additional training and ongoing support to help the businesses gain competitive advantage in the lucrative renewables market. “Our learners will leave the programme with their qualification and first install project under their belts, as well as a wealth of benefits from our partners to ensure they can access a support network, as well as a lifetime membership of Green Economy’s Marketplace, which provides the business with a weekly pipeline of new sales opportunities.” Andrew Kirkwood, Technical Director at A.A. Arnold Electrical Engineers & Contractors and one of the participants at the pilot programme, remarks, “The Solar Installer Accelerator programme was incredibly insightful, and I am now more excited than ever to start installing these systems. “We attempted to enter the solar market back in 2010, but only managed to complete one installation. However, I am optimistic that this time will be different, especially with the ongoing support on offer, and am committed to leveraging the resources and support provided to enhance our capabilities and contribute meaningfully to our local solar market. “Thank you to all the partners for this opportunity. I look forward to putting my new skills into practice and making a significant impact.” It is hoped that the pilot programme will be followed by a second session focused on heat pumps, another key renewable technology. Qualified electricians or plumbers based in Greater Manchester that are interested in joining this programme can express their interest via the Green Economy website. For more from MCS, click here.

Martindale launches ET6000 installation testers

Martindale Electric, a developer of electrical testing and safety equipment, has announced the launch of the ET6000 Series Multifunction Installation Testers, a range designed to meet the needs of modern electricians. This new series, which includes the ET6000, ET6300, and ET6500 models, represents the latest advancement in installation testing technology, delivering accuracy, reliability, and user-friendly features that comply with the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. The ET6000 Series is built on the success of Martindale’s previous ET4000 series, but takes functionality and ease of use to new heights, the company states. Each model in the series is designed to perform all the critical measurements required for verifying the electrical safety of installations, including high-current and non-trip earth loop impedance testing, voltage measurement, phase sequence indication, and Auto RCD testing. All models in the series boast a high level of input protection with a CAT IV safety rating, ensuring that users are protected when working in challenging environments. This range of testers is engineered for durability and precision, making them indispensable tools for both routine and complex testing scenarios. One of the standout features of the ET6000 Series is the high-quality, full-colour TFT display, which provides clear, easy-to-read results and connection information. The intuitive interface is enhanced by multiple help screens that guide users through the testing process, displaying easy-to-read test connection diagrams that simplify even the most complex tests. Each model in the ET6000 Series is designed for ease of use, with a 'Test and Go' carry case that allows the tester to remain in the case during operation. This feature is designed to save time and protect the instrument while on the job, making it an ideal choice for electricians who need a reliable, portable solution for installation testing. While all models in the ET6000 Series share a robust feature set, each is tailored to different user needs, providing scalable solutions for various testing requirements. • ET6000: The entry-level model in the series is perfect for electricians looking for a reliable installation tester that covers all essential functions required by the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. • ET6300: The ET6300 is an enhanced model that is EV-ready, making it future-proof for electricians who may need to test electric vehicle (EV) charger points. It comes with an expanded test capability, including low-current continuity tests and multiple RCD test options. The expanded accessory set includes stackable leads, the TL180 slimline test probe, and a mains charger with rechargeable batteries. Additionally, the ET6300 can be upgraded at any time with the Martindale TL305EV adapter to enable EV testing capability. • ET6500 (pictured above): As the flagship model in the series, the ET6500 offers advanced features such as onboard memory for storing and downloading test results. This model is also equipped for comprehensive earth testing with built-in functionality for three-wire or four-wire earth resistance testing, which can be performed using optional Earth Spike Kits. The ET6500 is ideal for electricians who require a more sophisticated testing solution with data management capabilities. It includes all the accessories of the ET6300, along with the TL305EV Electric vehicle charge point adapter and the ability to download test results via MFT Records software, allowing for seamless integration into Excel for further analysis. The ET6000 Series Multifunction Installation Testers are designed not just to meet the current needs of electricians, but to anticipate future demands also. With the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles and the corresponding need for EV charger testing, the ET6300 and ET6500 models offer a clear upgrade path, ensuring that users can adapt to the evolving landscape of electrical installations. Moreover, the ET6500's data storage and download capabilities address the growing need for digital record-keeping and compliance reporting, making it easier for electricians to maintain accurate records and streamline their workflow. Martindale Electric also offers a range of accessories to complement the ET6000 Series, ensuring that electricians have everything they need for comprehensive testing. For example, the TL78 (50m) and TL77 (30m) continuity leads are ideal for measuring earth bond continuity and R2 measurements via the long-lead method. The SB13 Safebreak socket adapter speeds up R2 and R1 + R2 measurements by allowing connection to socket outlets without removing the socket from the wall. For proving voltage measurement up to 440V, the Martindale PD440SRDX Proving Unit with CALCHECK is available as a companion tool. The CALCHECK function also verifies insulation and low resistance ranges on multifunction testers between calibrations, adding an extra layer of reliability for fieldwork. For more from Martindale Electric, click here.

UK Power Networks’ new apprentices begin training

The training schools of UK Power Networks have welcomed 27 new apprentices learning to master skills which keep electricity flowing to millions of customers. A baker, quad bike instructor and railway worker have joined new apprentices preparing with Britain’s biggest electricity network for jobs that keep safe and reliable power supplies flowing to 20 million people across London, the South East and East of England. The group includes school and college leavers, who can qualify in three years, and apprentices making a career change, who complete condensed training in two years. The company has purpose-built training facilities with electricity poles and wires, underground cables and substations, where 110 craft apprentices learn specialist trades as cable jointers, substation fitters and linespeople. UK Power Networks was recently named Large Employer of the Year in the Department for Education’s South East Regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024 and won Training Provision of the Year at the Energy & Utility Skills Awards 2024. The 27 new appointments were announced ahead of Tomorrow's Engineers Week (taking place from 11-15 November). Among the 27 individuals are the following: • Top student Morgan Wass, 20, from Hertfordshire, studied electrical installations and is training to be a jointer in Borehamwood. She says, “You don’t see many women in this industry. It’s nice to be able to do something different, where we can make a difference. I passed top of my classes at college. I think people see the electricity network as run by men, but more women are getting into hands-on roles now, and that’s a good thing. It’s not only men who can succeed at these jobs - women can too.” • Liam Apps, 19, from Kent, is training as an overhead linesperson. He comments, “I’ll be learning to maintain and repair overhead power lines and ensuring we sure we keep the electricity on. Once I’m qualified, I’ll feel proud completing a job that gets the lights back on and helping the public. It’s a company where there is a lot of support and we’ve been made welcome. All the managers and staff are approachable. It feels like being welcomed into a family.” • Sadie Haywood, 18, from Clacton, will train as an overhead linesperson in Colchester. She notes, “As a woman joining the course, it felt daunting to start, but everyone quickly made me feel at home. I love to fish with my Dad, and the fishing industry is similar to the utilities industry where it’s male dominated; but I think it is important to show that women can join this industry.” On encouraging young women to enter the industry, Sadie adds, “Take your confidence and run with it. You can do any job you set your mind to, there's no reason why it should stop you. I'd like to take my three-year course and train further in jointing and fitting disciplines.” Charlie Aston, Engineering Trainee Manager at UK Power Networks, remarks, “Our apprentices are getting ready to take on crucial roles maintaining electricity supplies in our communities - work that typically happens behind the scenes, around the clock, and regardless of the weather. “Safety and welfare are central to our apprenticeship, and we expect high standards of ourselves and our new apprentices. We nurture and empower apprentices to realise their potential, building a foundation for skilled lifelong careers and development opportunities.” There were 33 applications for every vacancy on the Power Networks Craftsperson (Level 3) Apprenticeships. The programme has seen a 38% distinction rate, exceeding national retention and completion rates, with all who qualify gaining employment with the company. The new trainees include three women in a sector where women are welcomed but underrepresented among job applications. Sixteen apprentices will train as linespeople, six as cable jointers and five as substation fitters. Theory gained at college is put into practice under supervision with mentors at their local depots and at the training centres. For more from UK Power Networks, click here.