n By Keith Hatch


All together now – your Construction sector delegates in action


Chris said with current targets for house building and infrastructure projects “we simply do not have the workforce to meet the needs”, adding that


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“Apprentices are not just part of the solution, they are the solution to meet our commitments.


“We need to raise the value of apprenticeships over other academic pathways. Together we can build a future that champions apprentices.”


The contribution from Chris started a lively debate with many delegates giving examples from their own experiences with workplace apprenticeships.


Billy summed up the view of many when he said, “Schools and colleges need to understand the vital importance of construction, and the industry needs to be more attractive to young people.”


Frazer Lake, Unite national coordinator for young members, picked up the theme as he spoke about the need to increase youth membership in Unite.


Frazer echoed earlier sentiments about the importance of young people in the workplace, saying that, “Young members aren’t the future – they are here and now. They need unions and they need mentorship and support from experienced reps.”


Many delegates reported that they have conversations with young workers, and in organised workplaces Unite is often involved with onsite induction sessions.


Internationally Unite is active in the youth section of the BWI.


One suggestion from the floor was of a “construction youth conference” in the future.


If the morning explored training, skills and young workers, the afternoon turned its focus on health and safety across the sector.


National health and safety adviser Rob Miguel explained the United Minds campaign and how union reps can play a vital role supporting colleagues at a time when poor mental health in the sector is at worryingly high levels.


Rob said that, though suicide involves a lot of factors, “Suicide kills more construction workers than falls every year. With four times as many construction workers dying from suicide there has to be an element related to this type of work.”


Following Rob, Sam Gale, head of the Samaritans’ training programmes gave a brief overview of the charity’s work, which has 200 branches and 23,000 volunteers, and explained what happens when someone contacts them.


Sam said, “Suicide is not equal. People on the lowest incomes have a higher suicide rate than those that are wealthy.”


Billy thanked the speakers saying, “We fought for better health and


15 unite buildingWORKER Spring 2025


safety conditions after the high level of deaths in construction from accidents. With suicide rates four times higher than this we need to campaign on mental health issues.”


The contributions lead to a discussion leading directly into Motion 2 on Mental Health and Suicide Awareness – which was carried unanimously.


The final motion of the conference was on climate change with delegate Lewis McAulay highlighting the need for a maximum working temperature and employers carrying up climate risk assessments.


The conference then wrapped up after a positive day of debate and discussion with delegates feeling energised for the coming campaigns and fight for their members.


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Strong unions are the best way forward for young workers and apprentices. Unite should produce a guide for young workers that explains what industrial action involves and the benefits of membership


Graham Jenkins, Unite rep and conference delegate


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All photos: Mark Thomas


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