Falkirk Council building team jobs could move to private sector after review

Falkirk Council building team jobs could potentially be outsourced to the private sector following a recent review of the council’s Building and Maintenance Division (BMD). The review, conducted by external consultants ARK, highlighted various challenges within the service, including staff shortages, high illness rates, and an ageing workforce. Discussions with staff during workshops brought attention to specific issues within the stores section, with some staff members expressing concerns that the stores were inadequate for their needs, stating that materials did not always reach the sites on time.

The recommendation from the consultants is to consider moving stores staff from the council workforce to the private sector, which could provide more advanced managed stores. However, it has been clarified that there will be no compulsory redundancies as part of this transition. Staff will have the option to volunteer for redundancy or choose to transfer to another council role while maintaining their current pay and conditions. Negotiations with staff and trade unions will be initiated as part of any potential changes, with the goal of implementing the new arrangement by October 2025.

The Building and Maintenance division of Falkirk Council has been facing challenges in recent years, struggling to fill vacant positions in a competitive market where tradespeople are in high demand. The report also mentioned that apprentice intake levels are at their lowest since 2010 across the country. Currently, BMD has approximately 40 full-time equivalent positions unfilled, comprising both trade and management roles. To address the capacity issues, the service had to halt non-emergency repairs to focus on preparing empty council properties for new tenants swiftly.

The Falkirk Council’s Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to discuss the report on December 3rd, with the meeting open for public viewing on Falkirk Council’s YouTube channel. These potential changes come amidst broader challenges within the building sector, where wages are comparatively higher in other industries, making it difficult for councils to attract and retain skilled workers.

In conclusion, the potential outsourcing of Falkirk Council’s building team jobs to the private sector reflects the ongoing efforts to address operational challenges within the council’s maintenance division. By exploring alternative solutions and maintaining a commitment to supporting staff through any transitions, the council aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its housing maintenance services for the benefit of the community.