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News, Press Release

Published: October 30, 2025

The past few months have marked an important step forward for the Scaffolding Association as we continue to strengthen our position, expand our influence, and ensure that the voice of our sector is heard where it matters most.

By becoming a member of Build UK, we are now part of the leading body shaping national construction policy. This is a significant development, putting scaffolding and access right at the centre of discussions on skills, safety, procurement, and sustainability. It means our industry is represented alongside other key players in the supply chain, and it ensures that the particular challenges faced by scaffolding businesses are considered in shaping the future of construction.

Our recent decision to join the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) reflects the increasingly important role scaffolding plays in retrofit and housing improvement. From energy efficiency upgrades to essential maintenance, scaffolding is often the enabler that makes work possible. Membership of the NHIC gives us a seat at the table as housing policy and standards evolve, helping to make homes safer, greener, and better for the communities we serve.

We are equally proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant. This public pledge underlines our commitment to supporting those who serve, or have served, in the Armed Forces, as well as their families. For us, it is about recognising the outstanding qualities veterans and reservists bring – leadership, resilience, discipline, and technical skills – and helping to create real opportunities for them within scaffolding careers. It also reflects our wider commitment to social responsibility and to the communities in which we live and work.

All of this progress comes against the backdrop of ongoing political change. The latest reshuffle has brought yet another new Construction Minister into post. This is nothing new – the role has seen an average of two changes a year for the last decade – but it highlights the difficulties of building continuity and trust with government when ministerial turnover is so high. That is why we are not only working hard in Westminster, but also making sure our voice is heard across the devolved nations, so that scaffolding is recognised and supported consistently at every level of policy.

Looking ahead, the Autumn Budget has now been confirmed for 26 November. On behalf of our members, we will be submitting evidence that focuses on three essential priorities: payment, procurement, and people. At the recent Labour Party Conference, the Chancellor made clear that the government faces extremely difficult financial choices, and even hinted that further tax rises may be unavoidable. Against that backdrop, it is more important than ever that we make the case for scaffolding – and the wider construction sector – to be supported as a driver of jobs, housing, and economic growth.

These are challenging times, but they are also full of opportunity. By strengthening our partnerships, speaking up for our members, and continuing to raise standards across the sector, the Scaffolding Association is determined to play a leading role in building a safer, fairer, and more sustainable future for our industry.