Scaffolding Association AGM showcases year of progress

Over 100 members attended the Scaffolding Association Annual General Meeting in September to find out more about the range of work opportunities that are now available to them, the value that membership now holds within industry, and the forthcoming plans for 2020. Steve Beazer reports.

The Scaffolding Association’s 2019 Annual General Meeting opened with Robert Candy, Chief Executive, expressing his gratitude for the continuing support of the membership base, who’s commitment to developing and improving the industry has been unwavering.

He then highlighted how encouraged he was by everyone’s ambition to progress through the membership levels, not only because of client requirements, but through their own drive to improve.

Review of the Year

Stacey Underhill, Head of External Affairs, talked about how the association had experienced continued growth since it opened for membership in 2013, and anticipating that by the end of 2019 membership numbers will have broken the 400 mark. Engaging with Clients and ensuring members have fair access to work has remained one of the main priorities, and a growing number are specifying Scaffolding Association membership within their procurement policies.

Stacey highlighted the key partnerships that the association has cultivated over the last 12 months, which includes membership of the Temporary Works Forum, the Confederation of British Industry and the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group. Delegates were also the first to receive a copy of the Scaffolding Association 2019 Annual Review.

President’s Update

Russell Maxwell-Smith, President, gave an impassioned speech about the importance of developing attractive career pathways for young people and the benefits of investing in the workforce to secure the industry’s future. He followed by talking about the steps that the association is taking to address the issues, announcing that the Access Industry Competence Scheme is now live, for those who are interested in supporting an alternative card scheme.

Marketing and Communications

Sally Smith, Marketing and Events Manager, explained how the association has maximised the range of events, media and multi-platform communication projects they engage with to raise the profile of the association and its members amongst key industry stakeholders. She explained that in 2020 they will be launching a Yearbook, Awards Ceremony, and a fresh new website.

Guest Speakers

The meeting closed with a range of guest speakers, who included:

• Andrew Rush – Birketts LLP

• Marcus Rose – SMAS Worksafe

• Peter Bennett OBE – No Falls Foundation

• Joscelyne Shaw – Mates in Mind

If you would like a copy of the Scaffolding Association 2019 Annual Review, contact stacey@scaffolding-association.org

Membership breakdown

2019 member survey – How are the most important issues being addressed?

Fair payment terms

Through the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group the Scaffolding Association are lobbying government and industry to improve current payment practices and culture. Members now have access to legal advice through Birketts LLP, and there will be a continuing programme of seminars into 2020.

Raising safety standards

The association’s social media feeds and AccessPoint magazine keep members up to date with changes. The Scaffolding Association continues to grow membership benefits, and develop industry partnerships that support members in creating safe and healthy work environments.

Access to work opportunities

Audited Membership continues to offer a route for members to demonstrate to clients that they operate to the highest industry standards. The Scaffolding Association continues to work with client groups to increase awareness of how the supply chain works and the benefits of using its members.

Access to training

Through the AITS (Access Industry Training Scheme) the association will be creating additional training capacity within the sector including new centres. By attending the CITB Federation Forums the Scaffolding Association are able to engage with them regarding future CITB plans and ensure those plans are fit for industry.

Membership growth

Stage 3 Scaffolder

Expiry Date 01/12/2023

Card No: 19-A0000

Name Surname

The event offered the opportunity to chat informally with the Scaffolding Association team, talk to exhibitors and network with fellow members.