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Strengthening Industry Support Through MP Engagement

October 8, 2024

As part of NSW, the Scaffolding Association has urged MPs to visit scaffold companies within their constituencies. These visits are designed to help MPs gain a better grasp of the industry’s critical role in supporting construction projects, ranging from small residential builds to national infrastructure. The ultimate goal is to foster stronger ties between the industry and government, improving conditions and opportunities for our members.


This initiative has gained widespread support from MPs, many of whom have agreed to promote NSW through their social media channels and committed to meeting with scaffolding businesses. Their backing is crucial in highlighting the challenges our members face, such as safety regulations, rising material costs, and the need for investment in skills training.

The return of MPs to Westminster after the autumn political party conference season marks an important moment for NSW. This year, the Scaffolding Association was represented at all major party conferences, taking the opportunity to engage informally with ministers and parliamentarians. These interactions allowed us to listen to their agendas, contribute to discussions, and underscore the pressing issues facing our members and the broader construction industry.

Many MPs have since shown their support for NSW, recognising the importance of scaffolding to the UK’s infrastructure and economic growth. One key supporter is Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State at both the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and the Department for Business and Trade. Sarah, who also serves as Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council, has recognised the essential role our members play in supporting the government's goals, such as the construction of 1.5 million new homes. Her commitment to working with the Scaffolding Association offers a promising step towards addressing industry challenges and improving the outlook for our members.


Robert Candy Meets Nigel Huddlestone MP

Another significant engagement for NSW came when Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, met with Nigel Huddlestone, MP for Droitwich and Evesham. This meeting highlighted the scaffolding sector’s contributions to the UK economy, safety, and innovation. Huddlestone expressed strong support for the industry, remarking:

"This week is National Scaffolding Week. I want to take a moment to recognise the vital role scaffolding plays in keeping our construction industry moving safely and efficiently. From supporting building projects to ensuring worker safety, the scaffolding sector is crucial. I have met Robert and Chris from the Scaffolding Association several times and am always impressed by their commitment to innovation and safety.”

These dialogues underscore the importance of supporting and improving the scaffolding industry for the benefit of all.


National Scaffolding Week: A Pathway to Industry Improvement

National Scaffolding Week serves as a platform to recognise the scaffolding industry’s indispensable role in UK construction while actively working to improve the industry for our members. By fostering connections between MPs and local scaffolders, NSW aims to create long-term benefits for businesses in the sector. These include improvements in safety regulations, access to training and skills development, and support for industry innovation.

The scaffolding industry is critical to the success of government initiatives such as infrastructure development and the push towards net-zero targets. Through events like NSW, we are ensuring that our members’ needs are represented and their contributions acknowledged by those in power.


Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future for Scaffolding

By encouraging MPs to engage directly with the scaffolding industry, the Scaffolding Association is taking active steps to improve the working conditions, opportunities, and recognition of our members. Support from high-profile figures like Sarah Jones MP and Nigel Huddlestone MP shows that the industry’s challenges and opportunities are firmly on the radar of policymakers.


As NSW continues to facilitate meaningful dialogue between government and the scaffolding sector, we are optimistic that this will lead to positive, lasting improvements for our members and the wider construction industry.

Beat My Scaffold 2025 Winners Announced

March 25, 2025
The #BeatMyScaffold2025 competition has officially concluded, celebrating some of the most innovative and well-executed scaffold designs from around the world. The contest, which showcased the skills and creativity of industry professionals, saw strong participation from scaffolding experts, judges, and voters alike.
Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders –

Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders – Essential Driver CPC Module Launched by Scaffolding Association and RHA

February 13, 2025
Scaffolding transport comes with serious risks and getting it wrong can result in fines, vehicle prohibitions, loss of an operator’s license, and, more tragically, serious injuries or even fatalities. For this reason, the Scaffolding Association and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) have this week launched a brand-new Driver CPC training module, 'Safe Loading and Vehicle Checks for Scaffolders.' This course contributes to the required thirty-five hours of periodic Driver CPC training, mandatory for all professional HGV drivers. Failing to complete this training can result in being unable to legally drive. Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said: "Scaffolding transport is both high-risk and heavily regulated and getting it wrong can have devastating consequences. Poorly secured scaffolding loads can cause serious injuries, collisions and even fatalities. This new course equips drivers with the knowledge to prevent such incidents, protecting lives and protecting businesses from enforcement action and legal consequences.” Richard Smith, Managing Director of the RHA, said: "Load security is a priority for police and enforcement agencies who actively target non-compliant vehicles. There’s a moral obligation too as unsecured scaffolding and unsafe loads not only lead to penalties, but they also put lives at risk. This DVSA-approved course is designed specifically for scaffolding-related transport and equips drivers and businesses with the essential skills to stay compliant and safe. It arms drivers and businesses with the knowledge they need to prevent accidents, avoid fines, and protect the public." This Course Will Ensure: ● Drivers and operators fully understand the latest legislation ● Scaffolding materials are transported safely, securely, and legally ● Vehicles remain roadworthy and compliant with operator license requirements ● Businesses avoid costly enforcement action, fines, and prohibitions What Delegates Will Learn: ● Load Security – Key updates and who is responsible ● Staying Safe & Compliant – The right way to load scaffolding vehicles ● The Consequences of Getting It Wrong – Prohibitions, fines, and legal action ● Daily Vehicle Checks – What must be checked and how to record defects ● Defect & NIL Defect Reporting – Keeping vehicles roadworthy ● Enforcement Agencies – Their powers, documentation, and what to expect Who Needs to Book This Course? ● All professional HGV drivers transporting scaffolding ● Operators and supervisors responsible for loading & securing scaffolding materials ● Businesses that want to avoid enforcement action and protect their operator’s license For full course details including dates and locations, please visit: https://www.rha.uk.net/Training/England-Wales/Driver-CPC-Courses/-Safe-Loading-and-vehicle-checks-for-Scaffolders

Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Shaping the Future of Scaffolding

February 10, 2025
As National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) kicks off, we at National Scaffolding Week are excited to celebrate the hardworking apprentices who are building the future of our industry. Apprenticeships are the backbone of the scaffolding trade, providing the vital skills and experience needed to ensure safety, innovation, and high standards across the sector. This week, we’re taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent within our field and the opportunities available for those looking to start their careers in scaffolding. Apprenticeships offer a fantastic pathway for young people and career changers alike, allowing them to earn while they learn, gain practical experience, and ultimately become key players in the scaffolding workforce. Why Apprenticeships Matter in Scaffolding The scaffolding industry is essential to construction, providing the structural framework needed for everything from high-rise buildings to complex industrial projects. For apprentices in the scaffolding trade, the combination of hands-on learning and technical training sets them up for long-term success. Through an apprenticeship, individuals don’t just acquire the practical skills of scaffolding; they also learn about the importance of safety standards, teamwork, and project management. These skills are essential in today’s fast-paced and evolving construction world. Moreover, apprenticeships provide access to highly sought-after qualifications and certifications, making them invaluable assets to any scaffolding business. Apprenticeship Opportunities at National Scaffolding Week At National Scaffolding Week , we’re not only celebrating apprentices but also committed to supporting the next generation of scaffolding talent. Our website is a hub for sharing valuable apprenticeship opportunities with aspiring scaffolding professionals. Whether you're a school leaver or someone looking for a career change, there are numerous pathways into the scaffolding industry, and we’re here to help you find them. By visiting our Apprenticeship Page , you can explore a variety of roles that are currently available within the scaffolding industry. These opportunities allow you to gain on-the-job training, mentorship, and industry-recognised qualifications—all while earning a competitive wage. We encourage all employers within the scaffolding community to post their apprenticeship opportunities on the gov.uk page so that the next generation of scaffolding professionals can easily find and apply for these valuable positions. Together, we can ensure a steady stream of highly skilled individuals entering our industry and contributing to its continued success. Shaping the Future Together Apprenticeships are about more than just learning a trade; they’re about building a career that can last a lifetime. We are incredibly proud of the apprentices who are dedicating themselves to mastering the scaffolding trade. Each one of them is a vital part of the future of our industry, and we’re excited to see the impact they’ll make. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025 , let’s reflect on the importance of apprenticeships in scaffolding and construction as a whole. By supporting these programs and helping to nurture new talent, we’re not only investing in the future of scaffolding but also in safer, more efficient, and innovative construction practices. To explore apprenticeship opportunities and learn more about the various pathways into scaffolding, head over to our Apprenticeship Page today. Join Us in Celebrating Apprenticeships We invite everyone—apprentices, employers, and industry leaders—to join us in celebrating the achievements of apprentices throughout National Apprenticeship Week. Let’s share stories of success, offer encouragement, and inspire others to take that important first step toward a rewarding career in scaffolding. Together, we’re building the future, one apprentice at a time.
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