INDUSTRY VOICE


BMF CEO joins charity board to support education in Kenya


John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF), has been appointed to the Board of Trustees of The Educational Frontier Trust, a UK charity dedicated to providing educational opportunities to disadvantaged children in Kenya. His role includes overseeing partnerships and fundraising for the Kisima School, which educates 160 children in Nairobi.


For over a decade, John has supported Kisima School, raising £25,000 through various initiatives, including sponsored cycles and auctions. His appointment to TEFT’s board reflects his commitment to improving education in Kenya. TEFT will benefit from John’s fundraising expertise, which has mobilised the building materials sector to raise over half a million


pounds for charities since 2018. Charities supported include the British Heart Foundation and Teenage Cancer Trust. John’s focus on education extends beyond Kenya, as evidenced by fundraising campaigns for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria and war-torn Ukraine.


John expressed his passion for supporting Kisima School


and looks forward to increasing opportunities for its pupils. To learn more about sponsoring a pupil at Kisima School, visit the TEFT website at www.teft.org.uk


BMF discovers new permitted development rights for Scotland The BMF has


learnt that the Scottish Government will introduce new


Permitted Development Rights (PDR) for low- and zero-carbon improvements from May 24th; the new rights will simplify the process for homeowners and businesses to make such improvements, helping them save money and reduce emissions. PDRs allow for certain


developments to be undertaken


without planning permission. Following a consultation last year, planning minister Joe FitzPatrick MSP has decided to proceed with several proposals.


The main changes are as follows:


Residential Properties ¡ Easier installation, alteration or replacement of heat pumps and wind turbines. ¡ Easier to alter or replace the windows of homes in conservation areas to improve energy efficiency.


Bridging the Skills Gap


The BMF wants to draw readers’ attention to the role apprenticeships can play to bridge the skill gap; with 5,000 to 10,000 people leaving the sector each year the challenge is a daunting one.


In the quest to address the skills shortage gripping the UK construction industry, On The Tools presents “Closing the Gap: Tackling the Skills Shortage in Construction.” Nestled within this comprehensive report lies a gem on page 81 – an article penned by Marianna Peet, the


38


Apprenticeship Manager at the Builders Merchant Federation. Peet’s words echo the urgency and the value of apprenticeships as a solution. She is advocating for a fundamental change, urging stakeholders to view entry-level vacancies through the lens of apprenticeships. By opening doors to individuals from diverse backgrounds, apprenticeships not only breathe new life into the sector but also foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.


¡ Homes in conservation areas have the ability to install solar panels on certain parts of their property.


Commercial Premises ¡ Updates to align commercial buildings with residential buildings in regard to easier installation, alteration and replacement of heat pumps and window improvements. ¡ Removal of a limit on the power output of solar PV panels - allowing business owners to fit more of them.


¡ Businesses with solar canopies in their car park can use the electricity generated to provide energy for buildings in addition to charging electric vehicles. The BMF notes the increasing use of PDRs in recent years to support an increase in living space for existing homes - and fitting small-scale renewable electricity equipment. Some latitude in planning policy would let property owners adapt quickly to changing circumstances and rising energy bills.


apprenticeships isn’t merely about plugging skill gaps; it’s about nurturing a sustainable talent pipeline.


By actively engaging with individuals, the building materials sector can dispel misconceptions, inspire the next generation, and forge a vibrant future for the trade industry. Investing in apprenticeships isn’t just a choice; it’s a commitment to progress.


The report underscores the pivotal role of apprenticeships, shedding light on the experiences and opinions of both employers and apprentices. Embracing


Together, let’s pave the way for a robust, inclusive, and thriving building materials sector. The future beckons, and apprenticeships are the key to unlocking its full potential.


www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net May 2024


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