A new survey has revealed the majority of homeowners seeking to have work done prefer builders who train apprentices.

The study, by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), states almost two thirds of homeowners would prefer a construction company knowing they train apprentices, while almost half would be more likely to actually hire a firm knowing they train apprentices.

In addition, more than two in five would be more likely to recommend a building firm based on the fact they train apprentices, while two thirds of respondents think firms should highlight the fact that they are training new workers.

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Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said these results suggest that training an apprentice "will help a firm stand out from the crowd".

"This new research confirms what many of us already knew – apprentices are good for your business," he said.

"Home owners aren't just concerned about the craftsmanship of their builder, they want to know they are hiring a firm with strong values. It therefore makes sense that a business that invests in young people is seen in a better light.

"If the burgeoning skills crisis in the construction industry wasn't enough to motivate those firms not already training to start doing so, hopefully this evidence will do the trick. It's helpful to know that apprenticeship training can not only provide rewarding career opportunities for young people, but it can also help a firm's bottom line."

Mr Berry added the FMB hopes the Government's new Apprenticeship Levy, which comes into effect next month, will help generate a "big shift" in terms of who's directly involved in apprenticeship training.

(LM/MH)