UK DWP Reports Nearly 10,000 Complete Construction Training Under SWAP Scheme
AEC industry · Project management
According to the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), 9,570 jobseekers have completed construction Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) in 2026/27. The government-funded short courses offer training, work experience, and guaranteed job interviews. Construction represents 17% of all SWAPs delivered this year, with over 80,000 individuals entering construction programmes since April 2021 to help address industry labor shortages across housing and major infrastructure projects.
UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) figures indicate that 9,570 individuals have completed construction Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) so far in the 2026/27 year. The publicly funded programme provides jobseekers claiming benefits with industry-specific training, hands-on site experience with employers, and a guaranteed interview upon completion. Across all sectors, construction accounts for 17% of SWAPs delivered this year, contributing to more than 80,000 participants who have entered construction-focused tracks since April 2021. Major employers including HS2 Ltd, Sisk, and Marlborough Highways reported using the pipeline to recruit entry-level workers, apprentices, and under-represented talent.
Key takeaways
- DWP data shows 9,570 people completed construction SWAPs in 2026/27, with the sector representing 17% of all delivered academy courses.
- More than 80,000 participants have entered construction training programmes via the DWP scheme since April 2021.
- The initiative connects benefit claimants to roles such as fitters, plant operators, and general laborers via local employer partnerships.
- Major project contractors, including HS2 Ltd, noted that SWAPs helped recruit over 5,000 previously unemployed individuals into rail careers.
Source：Construction Management Read the original ↗
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