by Clair Mooney | 22 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
CITB has announced that 67% of construction employers have voted in favour of its Levy plans, after confirming that it achieved Consensus in support for its Levy Proposals that aim to help provide training for the construction industry across the next three years.
FIS was one of two Prescribed Organisations that were in disagreement with the Levy Proposals.
The result means that Levy rates are proposed to remain the same for 2026-29. The proposed Levy arrangements are:
- PAYE: 0.35%
- Net paid (Taxable) CIS Sub-contractors: 1.25%
- Increase the Levy Exemption and Reduction Thresholds to £150,000 and £500,000.
If the employee payroll and Net paid (taxable) CIS subcontractors combined is less than £150,000, employers will not pay a Levy. If it is between £150,000 and £499,999, they will receive an automatic reduction of 50%. This approach was supported by a majority of employers at a recent consultation and means CITB will continue to support its smallest employers, so the Levy delivers for all.
FIS Head of Skills Beena Nana said:
After consultation with our members, FIS voted against the CITB levy proposals. Many of our members feel it isn’t delivering value, with little evidence of progress or meaningful impact on the key issues facing the sector, such as skills shortages, training, and workforce development.
FIS remains committed to supporting members by promoting skills development, and working with industry partners to ensure members can access the talent, support, and resources they need to thrive
CITB has now submitted the results to the Department for Education to ratify. Once ratified a new Levy Order can be raised.
Tim Balcon, CEO at CITB, said:
“Thank you to all employers who took part in the Consensus process.
“The Levy is designed to ensure that construction employers of all sizes feel supported with their skills and training needs. It plays a vital role in investing in the British construction industry, ensuring the development of a skilled workforce to meet the sector’s current and future demands.
“We are really pleased that Levy payers continue to be supportive of the Levy Proposals. We will now focus on delivering our Strategic Plan through which we aim to support at least 35,000 employers over the next four years and establish a simpler, more responsive skills and training system better aligned with industry needs.”
For more results information Consensus 2025.
Find out more about how your Levy will be invested in construction skills by exploring the Strategic Plan.
by Clair Mooney | 22 May, 2025 | Sustainability
FIS has been working closely with the Supply Chain Sustainability School for over three years now. Together they have organised several webinars to showcase the great sustainability initiatives of the fit-out sectors. Topics have included reuse, circular economy, organisational carbon reporting or modern slavery. The Supply Chain Sustainability School has a huge amount of online resources which are freely available.
A couple of years ago, FIS members helped create a short e-learning course “An introduction to sustainability”. This course is aimed at those in our sector that have no or little knowledge of sustainability, but are keen to know more. Those that attend the course can be rewarded with CPD points.
More recently, the Supply Chain Sustainability School has been working on a tool to better assess the industry’s capability in sustainability. This new assessment is based on what the company is doing in sustainability rather than their knowledge. We would like to encourage our members to use this tool. The plan longer term will be to use the tool to map our collective journey to net zero and help members benchmark their own efforts.
You can start your sustainability journey by registering with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to access lots of great resources (register here – Supply Chain Sustainability School). You can also assess your company’s capability here and calculate your organisational carbon footprint with this free tool, here: FREE carbon calculator for supply chains – Supply Chain Sustainability School
Visit the FIS Sustainability Toolkit for a full update on the work of FIS in this vitally important area.
by Clair Mooney | 21 May, 2025 | Skills
Transform your construction projects with Toyota’s production thinking.
The Construction to Production Toyota Masterclass is a one-day, high-impact programme designed specifically for Directors, Business Owners, and Operational Leaders in the construction industry. Hosted in collaboration with Toyota at the Deeside Engine Plant, the masterclass provides a rare opportunity to see Toyota’s Production System (TPS) in action and learn how to apply these principles to overcome common construction challenges.
Why attend?
- Learn from industry leaders – see the world’s leading production system in action
- Exclusive access – Gain insights from Toyota’s Lean Management Centre and experts
- Tailored for Construction – specifically designed to address the unique challenges of the construction sector.
Full details are available here. There are just two spaces remaining on the one-day course on 29 May.
The cost to attend is £495 and funding is available through the Employer Network funding of up to 70%. If you are interested in signing up, call: 07973 705018, email: contact@bbiservices.com or visit: www.bbiservices.com for details.
Further courses are planned for later in the year.
by Clair Mooney | 16 May, 2025 | Skills
1Following a vote of the FIS membership on the level of money proposed to be collected for the construction industry levy by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), FIS has voted against the CITB proposal. A full report has been provided to CITB documenting the result and delivering direct feedback from the community.
The Construction Industry Levy is collected and distributed by CITB in a process governed by the Industrial Training Act. FIS, as a CITB Prescribed Organisation according to the Act, are required to consult with Levy paying members of FIS through the defined process and respond collectively on their behalf.
The proposals for raising and collecting the Levy for the next 3 years (2026 – 2029) were
- 0.35% on PAYE staff
- 1.25% on Net paid (taxable) CIS sub-contractors
Employers with an annual wage bill of less than £150k will be exempt and employers with an annual wage bill of between £150k and £500k will receive a 50% deduction on the Levy assessment, meaning employers will only pay the full assessment if their annual wage bill is £500k or above.
FIS Chief Executive Iain McIlwee stated: “This vote is a clear indication that the levy is not working for the majority of our members, that they have not seen enough improvement since the last consensus vote and do not have confidence that the proposed CITB Strategic Plan will do enough to shift the dial.
The skills issue is perhaps the biggest challenge facing construction and any levy designed to alleviate this can only be judged by results. Members are simply not seeing the flow of people, the availability and quality of qualification provision and access to the wider training they need, particularly to support the high levels of contingent workforce necessitated by procurement practices in the sector.”
FIS is one of 14 consensus organisations and the vote will be considered in line with others. The overall outcome of the consensus process is expected to be communicated by CITB to the industry after consultation with government over the summer.
Whatever the final outcome, FIS will continue to help members to utilise levy paid where appropriate through the one-to-one FIS Skills Clinics. If any member would like help in understanding what grant claims they are eligible for, Marie Flinter, FIS Skills and Training Advisor will be able to provide support.
For further information or for any questions please contact FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077.
by Clair Mooney | 16 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
The BSI has published PAS 8700, sponsored by MHCLG, to standardise and streamline the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) in new-build residential properties. It covers project set up, design, information management, delivery and assembly, and maintenance and repair.
This PAS sets out the process for the effective deployment of modern methods of construction (MMC) in residential development to improve stakeholder understanding and realise the benefits of MMC. As the sector has significantly evolved and matured, there is a need for greater consistency and comparability to increase the use of MMC.
by Clair Mooney | 16 May, 2025 | Employment
The CIJC has updated its Working Rule Agreement to reflect the changes in the levels and qualification ages for the National Minimum Wage and the National Living Wage. The changes impact the rate for the General Operative and the Apprenticeship age related payments only. All other elements of the promulgation remain unchanged.
Members can also access the CIJC holiday entitlement for 2025 here.
by Clair Mooney | 16 May, 2025 | Building Safety Act
FIS members have access to Build UK’s guide to the validation stage at Gateway Two, which sets out the documents that should be included within an application for Building Control Approval for a Higher-Risk Building (HRB). The May 2025 version confirms the following in line with the most recent guidance published by the BSR:
- Building Control Approval is not required for building work which consists only of exempt work, work carried out under a Competent Person Scheme, or an emergency repair to an existing HRB
- For ‘staged applications’, applicants are advised to contact the BSR prior to submission
- The ‘Description of Proposed Work’ document is being used by the BSR as a ‘project summary’ to demonstrate the skills, knowledge and experience required of the Registered Building Inspector (RBI) when assembling the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT)
- Clarification on what should be included within the Construction Control Plan
- In the event an application is rejected, the BSR has advised that any new application should reference the previous one to enable the same MDT to be appointed.
In light of the significant issues with Gateway Two and the potential impact on the Government’s target to build 1.5 million homes, Building Safety Minister Alex Norris held a roundtable with industry leaders to understand what can be done to overcome them. The industry called for a ‘reset’ and urged the BSR to review the process, including providing greater clarity on what is expected within applications for Building Control Approval and increasing engagement with applicants. There was also a clear view that the BSR should share information on why applications are being rejected and publish regular updates on performance against the statutory timescales.
BSR charges increased from 1 April 2025
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has increased its fees for carrying out a range of building control functions from 1 April 2025. This includes processing an application for Building Control Approval at Gateway Two which now incurs an application fee of £189 plus the time spent reviewing it charged at £151 per hour per person working on the application.
by Clair Mooney | 15 May, 2025 | Main News Feed, Skills
As part of this process, members of the plastering sector are being contacted to participate in the review. This offers a chance for industry professionals to influence the standards that will ultimately shape N/SVQs.
CITB are seeking representation from across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with the consultation planned to begin in the next couple of weeks.
Interested parties can complete the provided form https://forms.office.com/e/rgVfxvSymW to participate.
More information on National Occupational Standards can be found here: National Occupational Standards (NOS) – CITB
by Clair Mooney | 13 May, 2025 | Main News Feed
The Home Office have announced that new measures were unveiled in the Immigration White Paper ‘Restoring Control over the Immigration System’ to reshape their immigration system towards those who contribute the most to economic growth, with higher skills standards for graduates and workers.
New requirements on employers to boost domestic training will end the reliance on international recruitment.
Every area of the immigration system – work, family, and study – will be tightened up, to reduce record-high levels of net migration and restore control and order to the immigration system.
Core principles of the plan include:
- Reduce net migration: Ensure migration levels are controlled and manageable.
- Link to UK skills needs: Align immigration with domestic training and skills requirements, avoiding over-reliance on foreign workers.
- Fair and clear rules: Make the system transparent and effective, with Parliament-defined rules, especially around family life.
- Enforce the rules: Strengthen enforcement, including tackling illegal work and deporting foreign criminals.
- Promote integration: Support community cohesion through English language requirements and assessing migrants’ contributions.
FIS Chief Executive Iain McIlwee commented:
“It remains a concern that there is insufficient differentiation between the types of immigration.
“For me, it remains disappointing that the political need to drive down the headline numbers continue to overshadow the practical economic need to consider the merits of migration to key parts of the economy by considering the skills shortages that could well constrain growth.
“We have over the past 50 years, we have become increasingly reliant on immigration. While it’s encouraging to see renewed investment in the skills landscape, we are still not yet the beneficiaries of this investment. No one is arguing against investing in domestic training and modular construction, but that may not be enough in the short to medium term.”
Further information regarding the Immigration White Paper announcement can be found by visiting: Prime Minister’s remarks and Gov.uk news story
by Clair Mooney | 7 May, 2025 | Market data
Workloads reported by FIS members in the FIS State of Trade Survey for the first quarter of 2025 were mixed with just over a quarter of respondents (19%) reporting no changes and 25% seeing an increase of over 5%.
Reports of sales volumes showed that 25% of respondents saw an increase of over 5% quarter-on-quarter and looking to the next quarter (Q2 2025) 29% of respondents expect an increase in sales of more than 5% and 29%anticipate a decline of not more than 5% compared to the previous quarter.
Demand topped the factor most likely to constrain output next year (45%) followed by labour availability close behind at 30%.
FIS members can access the full findings here.
by Clair Mooney | 2 May, 2025 | Skills
We are offering members the opportunity to give their feedback on the proposed competency framework for SFS.
FIS has been working with members and CITB to develop this, and it is now available for review for a 30-day period (1 May to 2 June 2025). These frameworks define the Skills, Knowledge, Experience, and Behaviours essential for each trade. The framework can be viewed here https://citb.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/CF_SFS
by Clair Mooney | 28 Apr, 2025 | Main News Feed, Market data
Excluding the potential impacts of the recent U.S. tariff disruption on the global and UK economies, the
Construction Products Association’s Spring Forecasts, published today, show that construction output is only expected to recover gradually. Following two challenging years that have particularly affected the two largest sectors – private housing new build and repair, maintenance and improvement (rm&i) – total construction output is expected to grow by 1.9% in 2025 and 3.7% in 2026, from a low base.
This is a slight revision down from the Winter Forecasts due to a slow start to activity this year, weaker UK economic growth prospects, higher inflation for longer and subdued consumer and business confidence. Furthermore, rises in the National Living Wage, employers’ National Insurance Contributions, and falling thresholds, from 1 April, will increase costs throughout the supply chain.
In private house building, activity continues to recover gradually, but house builders reported that it has been a slower start to this year than anticipated, as affordability and a lack of demand remain the key constraints, with mortgage rates remaining high and no government policy stimulus. Furthermore, developers working on high-rise apartment blocks continue to suffer from 6-9 month delays at the Building Safety Regulator, which disproportionally affects new house building in London and Build-to-Rent developments. On the positive side, however, the Government published its National Planning Policy Framework, and its Planning and Infrastructure Bill is currently being passed in parliament. This may help deal with one constraint, but according to larger house builders, activity from the measures is unlikely to be seen on the ground until at least 2027 due to developments already in the pipeline with planning permission. Overall, private housing output is forecast to rise by 4.0% in 2025 and 7.0% in 2026 and the risks remain weighted to the downside.
Private housing rm&i is the second-largest construction sector, and it continues to benefit from a consistent stream of energy-efficiency, solar photovoltaic and cladding remediation work. Outside of this, however, rm&i activity has been slow to start this year. A rush in property transactions before Stamp Duty changes on
1 April and a strong link between transactions and home improvement work within the first 6-9 months of moving in were expected to lead to a recovery in the sector in 2025 H2. This is especially the case as households have now had a sustained period of real wage growth and many homeowners have finance available for home improvements. This may still be the case, but the key is whether they will be confident enough to spend it, and a recent increase in the savings ratio suggests that households are more focused on saving rather than big-ticket item spending. Overall, private housing rm&i output is expected to rise by 2.0% in 2025, with any growth at the backend of the year, and 3.0% in 2026.
In infrastructure, the third-largest construction sector, activity continues to remain strong on major projects such as Hinkley Point C and HS2, whilst the Lower Thames Crossing has been given the go-ahead as expected, although construction work will still not start until 2027, and it will be privately financed. Energy generation activity will be the key driver of growth as wind farm activity ramps up and increases in capital expenditure in the water sub-sector to deal with high-profile water quality issues will also lead to a step-change in activity from 2026. However, whilst the headlines coming from government suggest record levels of investment in roads near-term, spending on road projects this year will be £5.0 billion less than it previously has been, and only two large road projects are expected to start this year. As a result, roads output is forecast to fall this year. Overall, infrastructure output is expected to rise by 1.8% in 2025 and 4.5% in 2026.
Commenting on the Spring Forecasts, CPA Head of Construction Research, Rebecca Larkin, said:
“After a difficult couple of years, the fundamentals still point towards a return to growth in construction activity in 2025 and 2026. A gradual improvement in UK economic activity and government’s commitment to capital expenditure should boost demand, whilst government’s easing of planning for house building, infrastructure, data centres, gigafactories, schools, hospitals, and prisons should also help delivery in the medium-term.
“The big risk is the potential impacts of the U.S. tariff disruptions in April. There is likely to be only a limited direct impact of tariffs on construction as three-quarters of construction products used in UK construction are sourced domestically. Even when the UK imports construction products, two-thirds are from the EU. However, this could be overshadowed by any effects on global and UK economic growth and the increase in uncertainty. This uncertainty adds a higher risk over the cost of new large projects, contractors working on existing fixed-price contracts and is also likely to dent investor confidence. As a result, it could mean a delay or hiatus in contract awards and tenders for new, large commercial, industrial and build-to-rent developments, in addition to less appetite for private investment in infrastructure.
“The CPA is forecasting construction output to rise by 1.9% in 2025, and over three-quarters of this growth (79%) is expected to be driven by private sector investment. UK construction is pro-cyclical, meaning construction activity moves in line with the UK economy. Nevertheless, construction activity is also three times more volatile than the UK economy so it would not take a significant hit to global and UK economic growth for construction growth to be badly affected over the next 12-18 months.”
by Clair Mooney | 25 Apr, 2025 | Awards, Main News Feed
FIS is delighted to announce the shortlist for this year’s FIS Contractors Awards – a true celebration of workmanship and design in the sector.
Thank you to all our members who put forward their projects, we had a fantastic number of entries, and our judges had a tough job on their hands in selecting the shortlist from all of the outstanding projects. Making the shortlist is an achievement in itself, so congratulations to all.
The winners will be revealed at the FIS Awards Lunch on 5 June 2025 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, by our Guest Speaker James Cracknell OBE.
Interior Fit Out – under £1m – Sponsored by SIG
- Clansman Interiors – Future Beauty Labs
- Drywall Contracts – Lillington Health Centre
- DSP (Interiors) – AMS Hayley Derby
Interior Fit Out – over £1m – Sponsored by SIG
- GA Interiors – New St Catherines Hospice
- MPACT Group – Virgin Money
- Titan Interior Solutions – Mulberry Academy London Dock
Partitioning – Sponsored by Protektor
- Indeglas – Edinburgh Futures Institute
- V&D Interiors – Ysgol Robert Owen
- V&D Interiors – Dorothy Pattison Hospital
Plastering (internal, heritage, and fibrous and GRG)
- Artisan Plastercraft – The Old War Office
- David Fisher & Sons (Edin) – Edinburgh Futures Institute
- Fine Art Mouldings – Penkridge Hall
- Ornate Interiors – Re Making Beamish 1950’s Cinema
- Ornate Interiors – Bradford Live
- Spray Plaster Specialists – The Blade and 360
Drylining Commercial – Sponsored by CCF
- Drywall Contracts – MasterChef
- Measom Dryline – Co-op Live Arena
- V&D Interiors – Ysgol Robert Owen
Drylining Residential – Sponsored by British Gypsum
- GA Interiors – Ebbsfleet
- Yesero – Manchester Square Gardens – Blocks A & B
Ceilings- Sponsored by Zentia
- MSC Fit Out – The Wellsprings
- Titan Interior Solutions – One Nine Elms
Steel Framed Systems – Sponsored by the Hadley Group
- Drywall Contracts – Holloway Head SFS Phases 1 and 2
- Stanmore Contractors – Ebury Bridge Estate
- Stanta Crowley – Aylesbury Estate
Acoustic Excellence – Sponsored by Troldtekt
- Clansman Interiors – Future Beauty Labs
- Measom Dryline – Co-op Live Arena
- Yesero – Manchester Square Gardens
The winners will be revealed at the FIS Awards Lunch on 5 June 2025 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, by our Guest Speaker James Cracknell OBE. As well as the installation categories above, winners of the following categories will also be announced on the day:
We would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who entered the 2025 FIS Contractors Awards. The standard of entries this year was incredibly high making the judging process no easy task – a true testament to the skills and talent that is driving our industry forward.
by Clair Mooney | 15 Apr, 2025 | Employment, Skills
FIS is delighted to announce its new partnership with The Skills Centre to deliver essential training and support for individuals pursuing careers in the finishes and interiors sector. This collaboration aims to address the growing skills shortage in construction, specifically in this sector, which faces a critical demand for skilled workers.
According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the construction sector will require an additional 251,500 workers by 2028. Furthermore, 61% of FIS members report struggling to find skilled workers, highlighting the urgency of this partnership to address the skills gap. As the UK continues to invest in reaching its Net Zero targets, retrofit projects will increase, driving continued demand for insulation and drylining skills as the 2050 deadline approaches.
Through this collaboration, The Skills Centre will deliver a series of Bootcamps designed to provide individuals with the hands-on training and industry-specific knowledge necessary to kickstart their careers in the finishes and interiors sector. These intensive programmes will bridge the gap between talent supply and employer demand, offering practical experience and career support to participants.
The first offering will be an Introduction to Insulation and Drylining course, which is a free, eight-week programme. Successful participants will earn a Level 2 qualification. The training and qualifications* will include:
In addition, a new Drylining Apprenticeship will be available for pre-screened local candidates who have come through funded Bootcamps. This specialist training will cover Partition Walls, MF Ceilings, Grid Ceilings, Shaft Walls, Metsec Installation, Rainscreen Cladding and Passive Fire Protection.
Employers in the finishes and interiors sector are encouraged to get involved and support the initiative by providing interview opportunities or offering work experience placements with a view to future employment. The initiative aims to support workforce development, create opportunities for career growth, and enhance the talent pipeline within the sector.
Commenting on the initiative, FIS Head of Skills Beena Nana, said:
“We are thrilled to be partnering with The Skills Centre to enhance the support we provide to our members while tackling the growing skills shortages in our industry. This partnership enables us to combine resources and expertise, fostering opportunities for development, training, and growth, which will ultimately benefit our members and the broader community by addressing critical workforce challenges.”
Sam Downton, Director at The Skills Centre added:
“Our new partnership with FIS marks a significant step forward for the interior systems and drylining sector. This part of the industry plays a critical role in shaping the internal environments where we live, work, and learn—but it continues to face skills shortages and often flies under the radar as a long-term, rewarding career option.
“Joining forces with FIS brings together their sector leadership and our expertise in delivering high-quality, hands-on training. Central to this partnership are our specialist Bootcamps, which are imperative for attracting new talent into the industry. They provide a direct route for individuals—many of whom are new to construction—to gain essential skills, site experience, and the confidence to move straight into employment.
“For employers, these Bootcamps open up access to a wider, work-ready talent pool and offer a practical solution to workforce gaps. Together with FIS, we’re not only building stronger pathways into the sector, but also helping to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and skilled future for interior systems and drylining across London and Essex”.
Employers can also attend planned visits to the following training centres to meet candidates and see the training in action:
- Build East, Stratford – Wednesday, 30 April, 14:00 – 16:00
- West Horndon, Essex – Wednesday, 14 May, 12:00 – 14:00
If you are an employer interested in attending any of these sessions or would like to support this initiative, please contact Beena Nana at beenanana@thefis.org or call 0121 707 0077.
For employers interested in finding out more about the Bootcamps and how they can get involved, a dedicated webinar will provide all the information needed to get started.
*Actual qualifications delivered may vary based on employer demand at the time of delivery.
by Clair Mooney | 14 Apr, 2025 | Main News Feed
FIS is marking its 10-year anniversary this year, celebrating a decade of unwavering commitment to FIS members and the wider sector. The FIS community includes contractors, manufacturers and distributors of ceilings, partitions, plastering, drylining, operable walls, steel framing systems, and specialist interior fit-out and refurbishment businesses operating in every type of building.
Formed between a merger of two trade associations in 2015, FIS has grown to represent over 600 members with a combined turnover of over £12.7 billion and a workforce of over 250,000.
Achievements and initiatives
The guiding principle of FIS is to be member-led and it is this support from members through the members Board, working groups, regional events and day-to-day close working that focuses direction and ensures FIS, not only has a clear and informed voice when working to influence change, but that activity is laser focused on delivering practical and tangible benefit to the community and wider sector.
Amongst the notable interventions and achievements over the last 10 years a few stand out, these include:
Steering the industry through Covid
We worked with the wider sector and key stakeholders to ensure members had access to advice in real-time, providing concise daily updates. The work also included mobilising a small working group to develop key H&S support (including the FIS COVID RAMS to support close proximity working). During this time, FIS was a founder member of the Construction Industry Collective Voice in Scotland, working with colleagues from across the nation to collaborate and optimise the support for the wider construction industry in one of the darkest times we have collectively known
Navigated the implementation of the Building Safety Act
FIS fed in to change and developed its Product Process People Quality Framework and Integrated Management Standard to help members manage compliance. FIS guidance on the Golden Thread was recognised as best in class in the industry and the free to member Building Safety Act training course has supported over 450 members to date.
Developed a bank of technical information and guidance
In the last 10 years FIS has developed an impressive bank of information to support the specification and installation of walls, ceilings, floors and SFS Facades. Dedicated Working Groups ensure that this growing wealth of technical information that includes our Best Practice Guides, Specifiers Guides and technical guidance notes help support best practice and training in the sector. Concerns raised in developing guidance for Partitions and Operable Walls led to the formation of the FIS Acoustic Verification Scheme, ensuing members claims about acoustic performance are verified. The scheme was expanded to embrace pods in 2024.
Established the Tall Building Working Group
In 2019 FIS established the Tall Building Working Group to lead research into concerns associated with creaking noises in tall residential towers. In this work FIS collaborated with industry experts from around the globe to study test data and movement of tall buildings and their impact on installations. FIS raised funding and conducted around £100,000 of testing to help identify causes of concern and start to help lead the sector in finding mitigating strategies.
Collaboration with industry bodies
Collaboration has remained at the core of FIS work and we have worked with a number of trade bodies and the wider sector to develop the Firestopping of Service Penetrations Guide – specifically targeting concerns related to the penetration of fire compartments. This work helped inspire the formation of the Passive Fire Knowledge Group, encouraging and leading collaboration outside of traditional industry siloes and latterly the publication of Walls as a System (looking at compatibility concerns).
Commissioned academic research and market data
In addition to an impressive array of benchmarking and market data available to members, FIS has commissioned academic research. The largest study to date was The Reading Report, a collaboration with the University of Reading and AMA Research with nearly 300 business contributing to this seminal study on challenges derived from contracting, procurement and payment practices in the sector.
Enhanced legal support for members
FIS Legal Support has ratcheted up over the past decade and the organisation has produced template contracts, training, a legal helpline and a contract review service delivered through an impressive array of leading industry experts. This work is pivotal in helping members avoid and manage disputes. Over 21 calls have gone through the FIS legal helpline.
FIS launched Project Reuse
In 2021 FIS established a Sustainability Leadership Group. This has become a vibrant forum for action and has specific training pathways to help ensure the workforce is engaged and knowledgeable. Tools to support a standard for pre-refurbishment audits have also led to setting up FIS Project Reuse, a live facility helping overcome practical problems aligned to reuse of products in commercial projects.
Helping to address the sector skills shortage
The skills shortage remains perhaps the biggest strategic challenge for the sector. Constantly changing the angle of attack, the FIS BuildBack programme helped to introduce 160 new entrants into the sector. FIS has developed new apprenticeship standards for Drylining, Ceilings, Demountable and Glazed Partitions and Plastering as well as frameworks to support demonstration of competence against the new industry standard. Work with My Professional Passport to develop the FIS Competency Passport was referenced in a recent Department for Education report written by Mark Farmer into training practices in construction as a tangible example of how innovation can help support change. Most recently FIS introduced a new partnership with The Skills Centre, bringing a modern and agile, employer focussed approach to delivery of apprentices.
Looking ahead
Looking ahead to the next decade, FIS President, Ian Strangward said:
“The success of FIS is that it works closely with us, the members, to interrogate and understand problems, tapping into the collective wisdom. This means that they are uniquely placed to develop targeted guidance and provide a platform for collective action. The world today is about more than what you know, it is about how you know. Much of the success of FIS is built on a structured approach to research and analysis of the problems. This work has seen us emerge as a real thought leader, not just challenging the behaviours and shortcomings in the sector and regulation, but looking at practical ways we can collaborate to improve.
“Who you know also remains important and all of the great work of FIS means it has never been in a better position to influence change.
“In FIS we are blessed with a modern, driven and effective trade body that stands us, as businesses, in a good place to navigate the uncertainty that is the world today and position ourselves in the best possible position to adapt and meet the changes head on”.
FIS continues to evolve and the next chapter involves the launch of a new collaboration with the University of Reading looking at the low-rise housebuilding sector, a renewed focus on health and safety, using innovation and e-learning to target occupational health issues that are putting workers at risk and shortening careers (adding to the worker shortages). The organisation has embarked on developing technical guidance into targeted training through the new E-Learning Hub. This work looks at how information can be better targeted with the scope of FIS support extending to cover with more specificity, in a modular way to support roles like contract management and estimating. Attention is also starting to turn to how AI and digital solutions can help drive productivity and support both the work of the organisation and the sector as a whole.
The FIS team remains passionate about supporting members in building stronger, more resilient businesses to take the industry forward. As we reflect on the past decade, we want to express our thanks to all our members for being an integral part of the FIS journey. Here’s to many more years of collaboration, innovation, and success. Thank you for your continued support.
by Clair Mooney | 10 Apr, 2025 | Skills
Come and see us on 30 April at Build East Stratford
FIS has partnered with The Skills Centre to deliver Skills Bootcamps to address the growing skills shortage in the finishes and interiors sector.
To support this, we would like to invite you to your local Bootcamp which is taking place on 30 April at Build East, Stratford to see first-hand the candidates who are currently undertaking training in Internal / External Insulation and Drylining.
As part of the bootcamp, we are looking for employers who can offer interviews, two-week work placements and/or employment opportunities for these candidates.
Funded by the Department for Education, these bootcamps provide a pathway for those looking to enter construction or upskill into a more specialist role. But without the support of employers these individuals may never enter construction.
By coming along, you can meet the individuals and see the training in action. The Internal / External Insulation and Dry Lining Bootcamps have a duration of 8 weeks, which include 2 weeks work experience, an outline of what is included as part of a bootcamp is listed below:
Training and Qualifications*:
- Cskills Level 1 Health & Safety
- CITB CSCS Health & Safety Environment (Green Card)
- Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit
- Level 2 Removing Non-Hazardous Waste in the Workplace (Blue Card)
- Environmental awareness in the construction industry
- Introduction to Interior Systems
- Introduction to Passive Fire
*Actual qualifications delivered may vary based on employer demand at the time of delivery.
If you are interested in finding out more about this initiative contact beenanana@thefis.org
We hope to see you there.
Bootcamp dates and venues
- Build East Stratford, London – visit 30 April 2 – 4pm
- Birmingham, Aston – date to be confirmed
- Essex, West Horndon – visit 14 May 12 – 2pm
- Edgware, London – date to be confirmed
by Clair Mooney | 7 Apr, 2025 | Awards, Skills
FIS and The Worshipful Company of Plaisterers have once again joined forces and are delighted to announce that entries are now open for the annual Training Awards, an award event which recognises excellence and achievement in the recruitment, training and development of people in plastering and interior trades.
The awards, which are headline sponsored by British Gypsum, will once again showcase the very best of the sector’s occupations and the achievements of students and apprentices, supportive employers and mentors, colleges and training providers. Last year saw 11 award winners including Plastering Apprentice of the Year Paige Williams of Drywall Contracts, Interior Trades Apprentice of the Year Shaun McKenna from Errigal Contracts, and Carlisle College and NPTC College all recognised for their outstanding contributions to the sector.
The 2025 award categories will acknowledge the students, mentors and training providers who have made an exceptional contribution to learning and development in the sector.
The 2025 award categories are:
- Apprentice of the Year – Plastering Trades
- Apprentice of the Year – Interior Trades
- Apprentice of the Year – Professional
- Student of the Year – Plastering Trades
- Student of the Year – Interior Trades
- Colleges and Independent Training Providers
- FIS Member Training Programme
- Formula Trophy – supported by Formula, this award recognises contributions to the development of skills and long-term future of Fibrous and GRG plasterwork
- Training Champion
- Rising Star
- Lifetime Contribution to Training
Master Plaisterer James Minett said:
“These awards are a highlight of the Plaisterers year and enable us to recognise professionalism across the sector. We look forward to welcoming winners and runners up in our wonderful Livery Hall.”
FIS President Ian Strangward added:
“The future of our industry depends on the skills, dedication, and passion of those committed to learning and development. The 2025 Training Awards celebrate not only the students who have demonstrated outstanding commitment but also the mentors and training providers who inspire, guide, and elevate the next generation of talent. Their hard work ensures that excellence in finishes and interiors continues to thrive. Congratulations to all those who have made an exceptional contribution – your efforts shape the future of our sector.”
Entry into the awards is now open and closes on 1 August. The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at Plaisterers’ Hall on 25 November.
For more details on entering these awards visit www.thefis.org/training-awards-home/
by Clair Mooney | 2 Apr, 2025 | Contractual and Legal, Legal cases
The case of
Workman Properties Ltd v Adi Building and Refurbishment Ltd involved the
expansion of existing facilities at Cotteswold Dairy in Gloucestershire. The dispute centred on the design responsibilities under an amended JCT Design and Build Contract 2016, specifically regarding the completion of the design to RIBA Stage 4 and/or BSRIA Stage 4. This case sheds light on several important legal principles and underpins concerns raised by FIS regarding the impact on the levels of design completeness and greater risk being pushed into the finishes and interiors sector in the face of increased building complexity and concerns related to compliance and insurability in the architectural world. The key points of the case were:
- Design Responsibility
- The court clarified that the contractor, ADI, was responsible for completing the design to RIBA Stage 4/BSRIA Stage 4 (i). This decision rejected ADI’s argument that Workman Properties had warranted the design’s completeness.
- The judgment emphasized the importance of clear contractual terms in defining design responsibilities. It highlighted that the contractor must ensure compliance with the employer’s requirements, even if the design is incomplete at the time of contract formation.
- Contractual Interpretation
- The court underscored the principle that contracts should be interpreted based on their written terms rather than subjective intentions or pre-contractual negotiations.
- ADI’s reliance on pre-contractual exchanges and subjective understandings was deemed irrelevant and inadmissible. This reinforces the importance of relying on the contract documents themselves for interpretation.
- Suitability of Part 8 Procedure
- In another concerning aspect of the judgement, the court found that the adjudicators decisions were based on an incorrect interpretation of the contract. ADI had previously succeeded in adjudications related to design obligations and financial claims.
- The court emphasized that the Civil Procedure Rules Part was appropriate for resolving the dispute, as the issues were primarily legal and did not involve substantial factual disputes. In this the court rejected ADI’s contention regarding the relevance of pre-contractual negotiations and subjective understandings (the facts of the case).
- In doing this the court’s decision clarified the contractual position regarding design responsibility, providing a foundation for resolving future disputes efficiently (setting precedence).
This case serves as a reminder of checking the design and pricing risk when confronted with an incomplete design, the importance of precise drafting in construction contracts and the limitations of relying on external factors and secondary communications for adapting the principles set down in the contract.
by Clair Mooney | 2 Apr, 2025 | Building Safety Act, Contractual and Legal, Technical
As of 1 April 2025 Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions for construction will move from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). The aim of this move is to bring greater clarity and accountability to fire and building safety.
Bringing these responsibilities together will strengthen coordination, improve policy implementation, and reinforce the government’s commitment to making homes, buildings and communities safer.
The change delivers on a key recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, which advised that fire and building safety should be overseen by a single department.
Following the publication of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report on 4 September 2024, the Prime Minister acknowledged the failings that led to the tragedy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the necessary reforms. This transfer of Ministerial responsibility for all fire functions to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government represents an important part of this work, and the government will continue to drive forward the necessary reforms to make sure a tragedy like Grenfell can never happen again.
The Minister for Building Safety and Local Growth who will be taking on responsibility for fire functions Alex Norris said:
“Ensuring the safety of people in their homes and communities is a top priority for this government. By bringing all fire and building safety responsibilities under one department, we are reinforcing accountability, improving coordination, and taking decisive action to protect lives.
“I would like to thank Dame Diana Johnson for her work in this important area. I look forward to working with fire and rescue services and key stakeholders to implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s recommendations and drive forward the reforms needed to keep people safe.
“This is a significant step in delivering meaningful change, making our buildings safer, and strengthening our country’s resilience for the future.”
Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said:
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve as Minister for Fire.
“I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the brave firefighters in our fire and rescue services, who selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting the public from fire every day.
“I would also like to thank the government officials and stakeholders from across the sector I have worked with over the past nine months. Their drive to make the sector stronger has been invaluable and I am certain my good friend Alex Norris will also benefit from their advice.”
by Clair Mooney | 1 Apr, 2025 | Building Safety Act, Contractual and Legal
The Scottish Government published its response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report. The response recognises that whilst operating to a different Building Regulatory environment in Scotland, the Scottish Government accepts all recommendations and will seek to use to implrement changes in Scotland.
The response confirms that the Scottish Government will continue to work with the Construction Quality Improvement Collaborative (FIS is already a supporter of the CQIC Construction Quality Charter and is encouraging members to do the same) to take forward work on industry culture, seeking to embed the principles that help to form a positive culture within industry through practice. It will also work with the Skills Working Group of the Construction Leadership Forum’s Transformation Board to establish the best approach to wider industry competence.
Alongside the response, the Scottish Government published its cladding remediation plan of action, which outlines the following key actions:
- an initial £10 million investment for those who have concerns about cladding to have their building assessed through a Single Open Call. This will be extended to cover mitigation and/or remediation works by the end of June 2025.
- finalising the Developer Remediation Contract and working with developers to accelerate progress with remediation.
- continue to take forward assessment, mitigation and remediation for properties for which the Scottish Government has taken the lead.
- continue to promote better communication with owners, residents and tenants.
Read the full response and Ministerial Foreword here.
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