Connecting regional retrofit delivery with workforce development
Regional retrofit skills planning helps connect improvements to homes with the people needed to deliver them.
This checklist supports organisations developing a regional skills taskforce. It provides a starting point for linking retrofit programmes with training provision and local economic development.
Cara Jenkinson of Ashden led its development while co-chairing NRH’s Workforce Growth & Skills Development Working Group. Members of the group’s task and finish teams contributed their knowledge and experience.
Who is the checklist for?
The checklist supports policy and delivery officers, including home energy leads working in regional organisations.
It is relevant to Net Zero Hubs and combined authorities, as well as county councils and partners coordinating local retrofit activity.
What does the checklist cover?
The resource sets out tasks to consider and suggests who to involve. It covers:
- Understanding the retrofit pipeline: Identify anticipated work and the occupations needed to deliver it.
- Mapping the supply chain: Understand local employers and opportunities for smaller businesses.
- Connecting training with demand: Bring employers and training providers together around the work ahead.
- Using procurement to support skills: Consider training commitments and access to contracts.
- Supporting local businesses: Help firms understand retrofit opportunities and develop their capacity.
- Developing skills across relevant roles: Include people involved in procurement and resident support, alongside technical delivery.
- Promoting retrofit careers: Improve awareness of learning pathways and local job opportunities.
How can you use it?
Use the checklist with partners to review existing activity and identify gaps.
Start by discussing the local pipeline of work. Then consider whether training provision and business support match the skills that delivery will require.
The checklist can help structure taskforce discussions and agree areas for further action. Adapt it to your regional circumstances rather than treating every item as a fixed requirement.
Download the checklist
Use the Regional Retrofit Skills Taskforce Checklist to support shared planning with your partners.
The resource launched in 2024. Some examples refer to funding programmes and arrangements at that time, so check current details when applying it.
Share feedback
The checklist is a working resource. If you have used it or want to suggest an update, email info@nationalretrofithub.org.uk.
Tell us what worked in your area and where further guidance would help.
Related resources
Explore the Retrofit Qualifications & Training Map for qualifications and learning opportunities relevant to retrofit.
Our Policy Recommendations for a National Retrofit Workforce Strategy examines the national support needed to develop workforce capacity.
Visit the Workforce Growth & Skills Development Working Group to explore the wider work.
Frequently asked questions
What is a regional retrofit skills taskforce?
A regional retrofit skills taskforce brings organisations together to coordinate workforce development around local retrofit needs. It can connect employers with training providers and the organisations planning home improvements.
Does the checklist provide a complete regional skills strategy?
No. It offers tasks and prompts to support planning. Regional partners will need to gather local evidence and agree priorities suited to their area.
Does it only cover installer training?
No. It also considers other roles that affect retrofit delivery, including procurement and planning. It explores business support and ways to raise awareness of retrofit careers.
Are the funding examples still current?
The checklist launched in 2024 and includes examples relevant to that period. Check current programme guidance and local funding arrangements before relying on a specific example.
