The Sustainability in the Supply Chain report from Scape Group surveyed over 150 senior managers at public sector organisations along with a range of suppliers and subcontractors delivering built environment services.

Mark Robinson, chief executive of Scape Group, stated: “Now more than ever we need to work more closely together in order to deliver for both the public sector and SMEs.

“We can only achieve sustainable levels of efficiency through a perpetual focus upon true collaboration, partnership and greater engagement with all stakeholders.”

The report also found that 15% of SMEs felt that the skill shortage had a “critical impact” on their ability to keep a budget, while 58% said there had been a negative impact on the quality of workmanship as a result. 

However, SMEs are leading the way in creating apprenticeships with 76% saying they now employed between one and 10 apprentices.

“This valuable report thoroughly explores the relationship between the private and public sectors and how joining things up can bring about significant change,” said Christine Townley of the Construction Youth Trust.  

“It clearly demonstrates the need to prioritise skills and social value as sustainable outcomes from construction and infrastructure programmes and makes recommendations for removing some of the existing barriers facing the industry.”

Mark concluded by adding: “This report lays bare the challenges, but also the opportunities, for both the public sector and the industry.

“Stability and sustainability are absolutely vital for both sides of the supply chain equation, and collaboration is the key to achieving them.

“Now the priority must be to push ahead with measures that will drive change – greater engagement, increased education and more long-term planning to boost local economies and deliver for communities.”