Recruitment and Induction
FIS runs a number of programmes to help recruit and induct operatives into the finishes and interiors sector. We have dedicated experts focussed on supporting our community with all of their recruitment and training needs. Below is a summary of the work we do, to help review and enhance your recruitment and training activities, contact FIS on 0121 707 0077 for targetted support.
Targetting School Leavers
Effectively targetting the 700,000 annual school leavers and inspiring young people to think about a career in construction is critical. To support you in this work the STEM Construction and Built Environment Ambassador programme provides vital training, tools and support – giving you confidence that the message is right and we are working (and learning) consistently as a sector. Becoming an ambassador will also plug you in to the STEM network and will open up opportunities to visit schools and careers fairs.
Ambassadors play an essential role in inspiring young people to think about a career in construction through a range of activities – these include school presentations, careers talks and mentoring. If you are interested in becoming a STEM Construction and Built Environment Ambassador, you can find out more here. Remember you are not alone and we are here to help. At FIS we have members of our team who have completed the training and are actively working as ambassadors, we are maintaining a network of ambassadors and are using this network to better understand how to target our approach and to develop resources.
Targetted pre-employment training and work experience for interior systems programmes
The FIS BuildBack Programme helps match employers with job seekers who are serious about developing a career in drylining. The programme puts them through two weeks’ introduction training in the skills and competencies required for installing drylining, followed by a two-week work placement on-site with a local employer. If you are looking for a site-ready trainee/apprentice or want to run your own bootcamp, FIS can help.
Whatever the position, be it for an estimator, contracts manager, sales representative, fixer or site operative, post it or search for it on our JobSpot. It is free for FIS Members to advertise opportunities here.
Looking for trainees or apprentices? Talentview is a free service provided by the Construction Talent Retention Scheme (CTRS) with support from the Construction Leadership Council.
Employers can freely advertise opportunities for new trainees or apprentices that will be amplified through all available channels.
Accessing Unemployed and Local Job Seekers
Wherever possible FIS Works closely with The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to support employers across the UK. They have a range of services to support Employers. The Way to Work scheme spearheads this and there is support for employers via local Job Centre Plus offices. This short video, how Job Centre Plus can support your business was presented at our recent Regional Recruitment Events. FIS has strong links with DWP across the UK and can help and advise members on the best way to access available support.
Accessing Ex-Offenders
FIS has worked with the Charity BounceBack on training programmes to support the finishes and interiors sector. Bounce Back is a Charity and a Social Enterprise focused on the training and employment of people in and leaving prison. They offer courses in drylining and painting and decorating that are relevant to our sector. If you are interested in finding out more about BounceBack, click on the link below. If you are interested in talking to FIS Members who have been involved, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Accessing Service Leavers
Established in 2014, Building Heroes is a gateway service supporting military families and are members of FIS. This organisation provides training and employment support to service leavers who are looking for a new career in construction by training individuals with a broad range of trade skills and then connecting them with a network of employers. Building Heroes recruitment provides a personalised service that matches the right candidate to the right job. Embedded in their training is a Dry Lining option, aligned to the FIS BuildBack programme. The organisation is currently looking to place individuals who have completed this programme (which includes two weeks of introductory training)
For further information including details of their introduction fees please contact Rachel Fianko rachelf@buildingheroes.org.uk
In addition, the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA) also provide support to Service leavers, reservists, veterans and their families to enable them to access new careers and training opportunities. Through their links with the Careers Transition Partnership, employers can access a high quality, no cost recruitment service. Candidates are highly motivated and experienced ex-military personnel, ready to bring their considerable skills and abilities to your organisation.
A Focus on Diversity
Women represent only 11% of the construction workforce in the UK and less than 3% of trade workers. Ethnic minorities and those with mental and physical challenges are all to often overlooked. We need to be better if we are going to address the profoud sklls shortage in the sector. This starts with culture. FIS have produced a Fairness, Inclusivity and Respect Toolkit to help members to improve processes and drive change. We also have a partnership with Women Into Construction and are actively encouraging members to join that network.
Offering Work Placements
If your organisation is thinking about recruitment you may wish to consider offering Work Placements. As well as BuildBack run by FIS there are nine government funded schemes in the Plan for Jobs and the new T’Levels (which follow GCSEs as an A level alternative and relevant to our sector include options to study Design, Surveying, and Planning for Construction or Onsite Construction, which needs to include at least one trade from the list of bricklaying, carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating or plastering). These all offer fantastic methods of encouraging people into the finishes and interiors sector. If you are not sure and would like to discuss your options please give FIS a call on 0121 707 0077 or email info@thefis.org we will be happy to talk you through all of the recruitment schemes currently available.
Remember – there is a CSCS Card for Industry Placement specially for T-Level and Traineeship students and FIS can help advise you on any insurance implications (insurance should not be an excuse in terms of providing opportunites and supporting our efforts here).