CITB CEO reacts to NEET figures

Tim Balcon, chief executive of CITB Tim Balcon, chief executive of CITB, has commented on last month's Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET) figures. We know the construction industry needs 41,200 extra construction workers each year. While today's NEET figures are concerning for the wider economy, they represent an opportunity for construction. We now need to ensure young people can access high-quality careers guidance, technical education and apprenticeships that lead to real jobs. Construction offers well-paid jobs, clear progression routes and opportunities for people with a wide range of skills and interests, but we need stronger careers guidance, clearer pathways into the industry, and continued investment in apprenticeships and technical education to help more young people take advantage of them.