What's Happening?
Desiree Blamey, the newly appointed managing director of the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), has announced plans to potentially reverse previous cuts to monitor positions within the organization. Blamey, who assumed her role last month, is advocating for the recruitment of new monitors to assess construction sites, despite a previous reduction in monitor numbers due to industry downturns. The CCS had previously let go of 20 monitors in June 2024, citing a decline in construction activity. Blamey emphasizes the importance of monitors in promoting best practices and driving positive changes within the industry. She is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including parents seeking flexible work arrangements. The CCS, owned by the Construction Products Association and the Construction Industry Council, operates a voluntary scoring system for construction site standards and a public complaints service. The organization plans to update its Code of Considerate Practice in the first quarter of next year to ensure relevance and practicality, particularly for SMEs navigating changing standards.
Why It's Important?
The potential reversal of monitor cuts by the CCS is significant as it reflects broader industry trends and challenges. The construction sector is facing increased scrutiny regarding safety, social value, and accountability, driven by recent legislation such as Awaab’s Law and the Building Safety Act. These changes highlight the growing importance of transparency, ethical conduct, and environmental, social, and governance performance. The CCS's efforts to expand its monitor team and update its code are aimed at addressing these evolving demands. This move could benefit SMEs by providing them with a framework to navigate new standards and contribute to industry solutions. The recruitment drive also signals a potential recovery and growth in the construction industry, as forecasted by Glenigan for 2026. However, the decision to recruit new monitors may face skepticism from contractors who experienced the previous cuts, indicating a need for the CCS to demonstrate the value of its new management and strategic direction.
What's Next?
The CCS plans to update its Code of Considerate Practice in the first quarter of next year, which will be particularly valuable for SMEs. This update aims to ensure the code remains relevant and practical in light of changing industry standards. The organization is also expected to run targeted recruitment campaigns in regions with high construction activity, as it seeks to expand its presence across the UK and Republic of Ireland. The CCS's new senior leadership team and dedicated roles for partnerships and product development are part of its strategy to support industry shifts towards greater transparency and accountability. As the construction sector anticipates recovery and growth, the CCS's initiatives could play a crucial role in shaping industry practices and standards.
Beyond the Headlines
The CCS's focus on diversity and inclusion in its recruitment efforts highlights broader societal shifts towards equitable employment practices. By encouraging applications from underrepresented backgrounds, the organization is addressing long-standing issues of diversity within the construction industry. This approach not only supports social equity but also enhances the industry's ability to innovate and adapt to changing demands. Additionally, the CCS's emphasis on ethical conduct and environmental, social, and governance performance aligns with global trends towards sustainable and responsible business practices. These efforts could contribute to long-term shifts in industry culture, promoting a more transparent and accountable construction sector.
