Building standards verification service - workforce strategy: closure report

Statement from Chair of Building Standards Futures Board

It gives me great pleasure to recognise the achievements delivered through the workforce strategy for the building standards verification service. As Chair of the Building Standards Futures Board, I have seen how partnership working and commitment to positive change has made a significant difference in how building standards teams are supported in the long term.

The Building Standards Futures Board is delivering seven workstreams to transform how the building standards system operates. Focus is on raising levels of compliance with building regulations and a new delivery model that maximises the use of digital technologies where these can improve productivity. A high-performing and skilled workforce is the foundation for the changes being introduced through the other workstreams. The individuals involved in delivering the building standards service are our greatest asset, and this strategy has brought a new focus on raising competence and investing in the future of the profession.

I supported the strategy’s objectives and outcomes sought by raising matters directly with Local Authority Chief Executives at the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives and Senior Managers (SOLACE) meetings. Their interest in the strategy and willingness to support key actions such as the appointment of modern apprentices was paramount to achieving success. It was, and remains, clear to me that the building standards profession is respected for the contribution it makes not just to the operation of the building standards system, but more widely throughout local authorities, for example on licensing, and safety at sports grounds.

I would like to thank Scottish Government for overseeing successful delivery of the strategy in partnership with Local Authority Building Standards Scotland, and most importantly recognise the changes verifiers across Scotland have made to their working practices to ensure success, as the formal strategy period ends. I look forward to working together to advance the outcomes of the workforce strategy.

Craig Hatton Chair, Building Standards Futures Board/Chief Executive, North Ayrshire Council