CIPHE Responds to Autumn Budget

On Wednesday 30 October 2024, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, presented her Autumn Budget to Parliment, the first since the Labour Party won the general election earlier this year, to Parliament.

Our Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Wellman, gives his take on the announcements that will have some of the biggest impacts on the industry and our customers.

Spend allocated to infrastructure

“Much of our infrastructure is crumbling. Over recent years, it has become clear that our schools, hospitals, prisons and transport networks require significant work to function efficiently and ensure the health and safety of the public across the UK. Therefore, funding is essential in order to tackle this and the announcement today is welcome.

“Increasing funding will not only help the public to access better transport, healthcare and education, but by funding significant construction work, the government will aid economic growth while also encouraging employers in the sector to invest in acquiring – and upskilling – industry talent.

“To ensure we have the skills available both now and in the future, the CIPHE is working alongside the government to ensure fit-for-purpose education and competency across the plumbing and heating industry, particularly for those just starting out in their career. By updating the current curriculum – as well as creating additional career entry points - the industry will be better placed to  meet demand for new build and remedial work across the UK.”

More funding for education and apprenticeships

“The announcement today for greater funding into apprenticeships and our education system is very welcome news. The UK is at a critical turning point in our history where we need to ensure our workforce is being trained for the jobs of the future, whether that is in sustainability and efficiency or digital and tech.

“At the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, we are dedicated to ensuring the workforce has the skills they need to do the job competently and effectively. As such, we are developing a new qualification, which has the backing of multiple government departments and industry representatives, that will create additional career entry points for those starting out in their career.

“For our sector, as with any in the built environment adapting to more stringent standards that deliver system requirements that futureproof our homes and infrastructure is critical.”

Further announcements, such as a rise in National Insurance rates for businesses were announced to and will have an impact on plumbing and heating installers. If you need help navigating any of the changes, find out the ways we can support you via our membership here https://www.ciphe.org.uk/professional/become-a-member/