Learning Skills Council says poor training record means construction has more unfilled vacancies than any other industry

A third of construction firms fail to train staff, leading to more unfilled vacancies than any other industry, according to new research.

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), which surveyed 79,000 employers, said the sector had to work harder to solve the skills shortage.

The figures were released as part of a drive to encourage employers to use the government’s flagship training service Train to Gain.

LSC director of skills for employers Paul Holme said: “Our latest research shows that Train to Gain is helping to unlock staff potential through recommending and delivering job-specific training.

“I urge more organisations to follow suit and get involved and see the benefits of investing in training for the long term.”