YouthBuild UK’s work includes offering training and support to young people furthest from the job market. This is more crucial than ever for ensuring a strong future workforce and helping the industry meet the acute skills crisis.

The appointment also reinforces the FMB’s broader commitment to driving up standards and public confidence through its Licence to Build campaign. For over a decade, the FMB has campaigned for a mandatory licensing system for building companies, a reform backed by industry and gaining parliamentary support.

Speaking on the FMB’s Build up from the Basement podcast, a number of MPs have backed calls for licensing, including Mark Garnier OBE MP, who has worked alongside the FMB and has a backbench debate on the issue when Parliament returns. Other MPs who spoke on the podcast and showed support for licensing include Richard Quigley MP and The Rt Hon Sir John Hayes MP, a fellow Trustee of YouthBuild UK.

The ESNZ Committee’s 2025 report calls for both accreditation and mandatory licensing of building companies to ensure higher standards, particularly in the energy efficiency and retrofit sector. This is a direct response to problems with poor workmanship and rogue traders, which the FMB has revealed has cost the British public £14.3 billion over the last five years.

FMB CEO Brian Berry said: “It is an honour to join YouthBuild UK as a Trustee. The construction sector cannot afford to overlook the next generation, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who bring fresh talent and new perspectives.

“YouthBuild UK’s commitment to inclusive training and support helps not only these individuals, but the entire industry as we seek to address an unprecedented shortage of skilled workers. By working together to diversify recruitment and invest in young people, we are both tackling the skills crisis and building a stronger, more resilient future for UK construction.”

YouthBuild UK’s achievements, including initiatives like the Young Builder of the Year Awards, complement the FMB’s vision for a dynamic, inclusive sector where all building firms meet high standards and the next generation can thrive.

YouthBuild UK general manager, Christopher Selby, added: “Both the board of Trustees and myself are delighted to be welcoming Brian as a trustee. Brian’s experience and profile within the industry offers YouthBuild UK a significant opportunity to develop further and provide impetus for the work we do.

“As with the charity’s other trustees, Brian is acutely aware of the need for positive action in support of all young people into roles in construction, a sector with clearly understood skills shortages. The need to support disadvantaged young people, therefore, is as vital as any such support.”

The board of trustees will formally welcome Brian to the organisation at a meeting in September.