Following the November 2025 Budget, Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer of the CIPHE, provided his reaction:
“Whilst there is still a need for stronger, long-term support for the heating and plumbing sector, the CIPHE supports the government’s focus on funding apprenticeships and pathways into the industry announced in the Autumn Budget. Reeves’ announcement of apprenticeship support for SMEs signals that the government is finally recognising the value of apprenticeships. It’s now critical that it engages and collaborates with the sector to turn promises into meaningful action.
“Additionally, the continuation of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is welcome and brings stability and certainty to the industry despite the growing uncertainty in the run-up to the announcement. Levies are still required to support the transition to low-carbon heating.
“Supporting young people through apprenticeships and training in tandem with long-term policies on low-carbon heating is the best way to guarantee the success of the sector. Only then can the plumbing and heating sector thrive, attract new talent, and play its leading role in the UK’s energy transition.
“The CIPHE Manifesto 2025–2027 makes clear that without sustained support for skills and low carbon initiatives, the sector risks being unable to meet the UK’s energy transition and Net Zero targets.”
A sector under pressure
“Demand for qualified plumbing and heating professionals continues to rise. No more so during the colder months when many heating systems fail. Ageing infrastructure, the need to meet modern building standards, and the move towards low-carbon technologies are all driving the requirement for skilled professionals to enter the industry.
“However, the number of skilled workers entering the industry is simply not keeping pace. We are hopeful that Reeves’ funding for apprenticeships will help drive skilled professionals into the sector.”
The BUS scheme
“The expansion of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a positive outcome that increases the choice for many in the installation of an air source heat pump. A coherent, long-term framework is needed if the scheme is to make the impact the government intends in the years to come.”
Investment in skills must come now
“Aside from additional funding, the government must take a strategic approach to building technical skills in the workforce. Offering high-quality apprenticeships, like those which incorporate our Level 2 and 3 Plumbing Standards, and supporting retraining for those who wish to move into the sector later in their careers are both critical for the future. Colleges, training providers and employers all need stability if they are to deliver the plumbing and heating installer workforce that the UK relies upon.”
Changing perceptions of plumbing
“Whilst Reeves’ funding into apprenticeships is welcome, efforts also need to be focused on changing perceptions around heating and plumbing as a trade.
“Modern plumbing and heating roles require technical skill, problem-solving, and precision. From ensuring safe water quality through to installing heat pumps and smart heating systems, today’s professionals play a central role in protecting public health and delivering the UK’s transition to low carbon heating.
“To attract, we have a collective responsibility to raise awareness of the breadth of the profession, and create clear routes into the industry. Investing in skills is no longer a choice. It is fundamental to the country’s safety, resilience and energy strategy.”
Economic confidence damages demand
“The mass uncertainty in the run-up to the Budget means many households and businesses have curtailed spending. Growing speculation around income tax rises has fuelled concerns that household budgets will be squeezed further, into delaying non-urgent plumbing projects.
“The government has work to do to build business confidence and invest in a skilled workforce that will drive long-term economic recovery.”
IMAGE: Kevin Wellman, CIPHE
