Discrimination Faced by Construction Workers Adds to Skills Crisis

ALMOST HALF of construction workers report they have either personally experienced or witnessed discrimination in their workplace.

Additionally, only 50% considered the construction sector to be diverse and inclusive.

The data from a survey of 538 construction workers by job site CV-Library reveal persistent barriers facing minority groups seeking construction work.

It also highlights an inclusion gap that is slowing the sector’s progress in an industry already facing significant talent shortages.

Lee Biggins, CEO of CV-Library

Lee Biggins, CEO of CV-Library, said the findings show how discrimination continues to undermine efforts to build a stronger and more inclusive workforce: “It’s disappointing to hear that so many construction workers are still experiencing high levels of discrimination. Attracting the broadest range of talent – from brickies to surveyors – is not only important to ensure equal opportunities for everyone, but critical to get Britain building.”

Improving Visibility 

With large-scale infrastructure projects like HS2 and the government’s housing targets, the lack of diversity and access to opportunities isn’t just a social issue, it’s a productivity and performance challenge. The CITB estimates the UK will need an additional 240,000 workers over the next five years to meet ambitious infrastructure targets.

To help address this, CV-Library has renewed its three-year partnership with the Black Professionals in Construction (BPIC Network). The collaboration focuses on improving visibility and access to opportunities for Black and ethnic minority professionals across the construction and built sectors.

Amos Simbo, Director of BPIC Network, said: “Our partnership with CV-Library is helping us broaden and diversify the talent pipeline across construction. By connecting Black and ethnic minority professionals with meaningful opportunities, we’re not only opening doors for under-represented groups but also helping the sector address critical hiring shortages and build a stronger, more inclusive workforce.”

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