A new £22 million training fund has been launched to tackle skills shortages within the construction sector.

Skills Minister Anne Milton has unveiled the Construction Skills Fund which aims to support the creation 20 on-site training hubs, allowing learners to applier their knowledge in a real-world environment.

Other key aims of the 18-month scheme includes;

• Work experience and placements for people working to join the industry

• Entry pathways for those currently unemployed

• Pathways for career switchers

The initiative is funded by the Department for Education and will be administered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

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Skills Minister Anne Milton said: "For our economy to thrive we need everyone, regardless of their age or background, to be able to get the training and the skills they need to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.

"The Government has committed to building 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s and we want to make sure that we are investing in the UK skills base to deliver this."

Steve Radley, Policy Director at CITB, said: "The Construction Skills Fund is a milestone scheme for the sector and provides a significant investment in skills and training. It will help attract new talent and bridge the gap between training and working in the industry.

"Having training on or near to major projects will reveal what an exciting sector this can be, while also putting new talent in the shop window.

"We want all interested organisations to submit Expressions of Interest that are innovative, collaborative and with training at their heart. We will support applicants through the process and provide expert guidance to apply to the fund.

"We are pleased to help deliver this major new project and we are confident that, with industry support, it can help meet construction's skills needs now and in the future."

(LM)