New report launches the Sureserve Healthy Homes and Retrofit Model.

As the social housing sector races to meet rising repairs and compliance standards while also working towards decarbonisation goals too, a fundamental challenge looms: the UK lacks the skilled workforce to deliver the scale and complexity of retrofit required. 

In our 'Collaborating on green skills: A framework to increase capacity in retrofit for social housing’ report, we examine the evidence and the most relevant issues for local authorities and housing associations. 

We echo the industry calls for a long-term national retrofit workforce strategy but also outline the role we are playing to help drive this change.

A growing green skills crisis for social landlords

Meeting retrofit targets across social housing alone will require an estimated 500,000 new workers by 2030. From heat pump and solar PV installers to retrofit coordinators, surveyors, and compliance officers, the demand for skilled professionals spans the entire supply chain.

Yet the skills base remains underdeveloped. An ageing workforce, inconsistent training routes, and a lack of visibility around retrofit careers continue to limit progress. As a result, delivery is at risk – with implications for compliance, resident safety and public trust.

The career opportunity of a generation

Retrofitting social homes is not only a climate imperative. It’s a route to healthier homes, lower energy bills, and local economic renewal. With the introduction of the Procurement Act 2025, social landlords must now maximise public benefit – making workforce development and local job creation critical components of success.

We believe that the green skills transition is a shared responsibility. That’s why we’re investing heavily in apprenticeships, dual-fuel training, and partnerships with colleges and local authorities. But it’s also why we’re calling for systemic change.

One big ask: a national retrofit workforce strategy

In our report, we echo sector-wide calls – including from the G15, National Retrofit Hub and Gatsby Foundation – for a 10-year strategy that joins up government departments, training providers, local leaders and industry.

This must include:
•    Mandatory qualifications and stronger accreditation pathways
•    Empowered local colleges and funding for green apprenticeships
•    Mid-career retraining programmes using familiar refresh points
•    Inclusive recruitment campaigns and regional access to training
•    A policy shift, treating skills development like R&D, with stable funding and support for innovation

Introducing the Sureserve Healthy Homes and Retrofit Model

To help put these principles into action, we’re developing the Sureserve Healthy Homes and Retrofit Model – a framework to build retrofit capacity at a local level in partnership with housing providers, colleges and communities.

The model includes five key pillars:
1.    Community-based recruitment
2.    Local employment and mentorship
3.    Practical, accredited training and CPD
4.    Integrated partnerships and social value
5.    Sustainable funding and career pathways

From delivering on-the-job learning in ‘living labs’ to supporting underrepresented groups into skilled roles, the model is designed to create lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Next steps: let’s collaborate

No single organisation can solve the green skills challenge. But by working together, we can build a workforce ready to deliver safe, compliant and high-quality retrofit.

Sureserve hosted a major Parliamentary reception to launch our report, which will be followed by regional roundtables to refine this approach and share best practice. 

To join the conversation or explore how we can support your retrofit programme, contact us here.