During Green Careers Week , NHIC Chief Executive Anna Scothern reflects on how the drive toward a net-zero future is reshaping the housing and home-improvement sectors — and creating a wave of meaningful, sustainable career opportunities.
“Retrofit isn’t just about improving homes,” she notes, “it’s about improving lives, communities, and the environment. It’s where climate action meets craft and care.”

At the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC), we see retrofit as the cornerstone of a greener future for UK housing — and a key to putting our 3 Rs into practice:

1. Reduce energy, emissions and wasted potential.
2. Respect people, places and the planet.
3. Rebuild trust, skills and standards.

Why retrofit matters now

Our existing housing stock is one of the most urgent fronts in the UK’s climate and quality-of-life challenge. The housing sector is responsible for a large share of energy use and carbon emissions, and many homes fall short of standards of comfort, health and sustainability.

According to NHIC’s research, around 29 million homes in the UK – many older, poorly insulated and inefficient – require energy upgrades to meet the country’s net-zero aspirations.

The scale of opportunity is huge. Industry estimates suggest investment on the order of hundreds of billions of pounds will be needed over the next decade to retrofit homes at pace.

That means: major demand for skilled people, for businesses to adapt, and for fresh talent to join the field.

What this means for green careers in retrofit

Retrofit is not just one job role – it’s a spectrum of roles, across disciplines, across organisations, and across apprenticeship or career stages. Here are just a few:

• Installers and tradespeople – insulation installers, airtightness specialists, low-carbon heating system engineers, retrofit fit-out crews.
• Design, surveying & coordination – roles such as Retrofit Assessors, Retrofit Coordinators (as defined under standards such as PAS 2035 and PAS 2030) who ensure whole-house thinking, compliance and quality.
• Project / programme management – moving beyond individual homes, large-scale programmes (local authority or social housing) require coordinators, planners, supply-chain specialists.
• Innovation, digital & data – retrofit demand is driving new business models, digital tools, monitoring and verification systems, building-performance analytics.
• Sales, customer advice & education – homeowners need trusted advice, guidance and quality assurance. Businesses need people who can communicate retrofit benefits, manage customer journeys, build trust.
• Policy, regulation and compliance – professionals who understand evolving standards, accreditation frameworks, government funding pathways, quality-marks and consumer protection.

For young people and career-changers, retrofit offers an avenue into construction / built-environment with a modern, future-facing purpose. For existing tradespeople and small enterprises, retrofit means diversification and future-proofing their business. For example, NHIC’s “Retrofit for SMEs” digest demonstrates how micro-businesses can get involved and grow in this space.

The NHIC difference: quality, trust and standards

At NHIC we are uniquely placed to support careers in the retrofit market because we focus on aligning industry, government, and consumers around better homes and higher standards. As described on our website, NHIC “leads industry-wide conversations, collaborating with key stakeholders to drive quality and trust in the delivery of home improvement.”

That means we are committed to:

• Promoting clarity around professional standards and certification (e.g., PAS 2035/PAS 2030, accreditation bodies, TrustMark-type quality marks)
• Raising awareness of the retrofit market and the skills demand (making sure installers, trades, and advisors recognise the opportunity)
• Supporting SMEs and supply-chains to reskill and upscale into retrofit work (so that the market meets demand)
• Working with policymakers to help create consistent policy frameworks, financing structures and consumer-confidence mechanisms (so that the retrofit job-opportunity is sustainable)

Why now is the time to act

Green Careers Week reminds us that the urgency of climate action demands parallel action in the labour market. Here’s why this moment is critical for the retrofit market:

• The retrofit target-setting and investment frameworks are ramping up – for example, the industry is being asked to deliver large volumes of energy-efficiency upgrades and low-carbon heating retrofits in existing homes.
• Skills shortages are a real barrier: studies show the retrofit market requires tens or hundreds of thousands more skilled workers if we are to meet decarbonisation goals.
• Homeowners are increasingly aware of the value of retrofit – reduced bills, increased comfort, improved property value – creating rising demand. (Though barriers still remain.)
• For businesses and tradespeople, retrofit offers a way to future-proof: as regulation tightens around energy-performance, retrofit skills will become even more in demand.

A call to action: join the retrofit revolution

Whether you’re a young person deciding on career directions, an educator shaping future talent, a tradesperson seeking to expand your business, or a professional already in the built-environment – here’s what you can do:

1. Explore retrofit career paths. Look into professional roles across the retrofit supply-chain – installers, coordinators, project managers, advisors. Research training options (see the NHIC “Retrofit for SMEs” digest).
2. Upskill and certify. Check out training programmes and accreditation bodies (e.g., Retrofit Academy, TrustMark registration, PAS 2035 roles). As NHIC outlines, SMEs may need training, quality-management systems, certification and registration to thrive.
3. Promote retrofit awareness. If you’re in education or outreach, highlight retrofit as a meaningful, future-facing career that ticks multiple boxes: sustainability, homes, technology, people.
4. Engage with your network and supply-chain. Businesses should review their capability, identify where retrofit fits, engage with local authority or social-housing programme pipelines, and position for the demand surge.
5. Stand by the 3 Rs. As NHIC emphasises: reduce emissions and wasted potential, respect people & places by delivering quality homes, rebuild trust in standards and skills. Retrofit is a linchpin for all three.

Conclusion

Green Careers Week is more than a moment to talk about jobs. It’s a moment to align careers with purpose. For the UK’s housing and built-environment sector, retrofit offers a rare convergence: the need is massive, the opportunity genuine, and the impact — on carbon, on homes, on people’s lives — real.

At NHIC, our mission is to bring together industry, installers, government and consumers so that homes improve, standards rise and the workforce of tomorrow is ready.

If you’re ready to build a greener future, a retrofit-focused career path might be your next step. Explore the resources, take the training, and join the movement. Together we can retrofit the UK’s homes — and rebuild our industry’s skills, trust and value in the process.

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Honouring Excellence: The 2025 Stunell Awards

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the 2025 Stunell Awards, which recognise outstanding contributions to positive, lasting change in home improvement. This year’s awards – named after Lord Andrew Stunell OBE – honoured one individual and one organisation for their leadership and impact:

• Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive of HIES, HICS & DGCOS – Award for Individual Achievement, for championing mental health and wellbeing in the home improvement sector. Under Faisal’s leadership, installer mental health has become a forefront issue, with new support programs and open conversations helping reduce stigma and build a more resilient workforce.
• Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) – Award for Organisational Achievement, for transforming apprenticeships and skills development across the industry. The BMF’s initiatives (such as its Apprenticeship Pledge, with over 15,000 commitments signed) have revitalised training opportunities, making apprenticeships a mainstream pathway and strengthening the skills pipeline in the RMI supply chain.

NHIC Chair Jon Vanstone commended the winners as embodying the innovation, collaboration and dedication that the Stunell Award stands for. And in presenting the awards, NHIC Chief Executive Anna Scothern reflected on their significance, saying:

“The Stunell Award celebrates the spirit of collaboration and commitment that defines our sector. In our 50th year, it’s inspiring to see leaders like Faisal Hussain and the Builders Merchants Federation setting such powerful examples of purpose in action. Their work shows how much can be achieved when we care for people as much as we innovate for progress.”

This heartfelt message resonated strongly in the room, underscoring that caring for people – from customers to the workforce – is as vital to progress as technical innovation. In the context of NHIC’s 50-year journey, the 2025 Stunell Award winners personify the Council’s enduring mission to turn policy ideals into practical action for safer, healthier, and higher-quality homes.

“Strengthening Systems, Skills and Safeguards” – Panel Highlights

Another engaging portion of the event was a panel discussion titled “Strengthening Systems, Skills and Safeguards.” Moderated by Anna Scothern, this discussion brought together voices from different corners of the home improvement ecosystem to explore how to build a “safe, skilled, and sustainable” sector. The panel featured:

• Jon Vanstone (Chair of Industry Competence Committee – ICC) a leading voice on installer competence and compliance, sharing insights from the Protect What Matters report on bolstering consumer financial protection.
• Mussa Awaleh (Senior Policy Advisor, HSE) – offering a regulator’s perspective on workforce health, site safety, and the balance of oversight vs. practical delivery.
• Lucy Dixon (Head of Engagement, InstallerFUTURES, Nineteen Group) – championing the installer’s voice and how to inspire the next generation of tradespeople, based on her work engaging young talent.
• Deborah Stephenson (Business Development Manager, CORGI Services) – bringing a safeguarding and quality lens, focusing on consumer protection and service excellence in areas like retrofit.

Together, the panellists and audience delved into the debate, which will be featured by Installer and Elemental Magazines, generated strong engagement both in the room and online. They discussed how no single part of the system can drive change alone, highlighting the need for better coordination across policy, industry, and the trades. Key themes that emerged from the conversation included:

• Collaboration: Strengthening cross-sector partnerships and “building bridges” between stakeholders to raise standards collectively.
• Installer Wellbeing: Prioritising the mental health, safety, and job satisfaction of installers – recognising them as skilled professionals who are the heartbeat of the sector.
• Skills Development: Investing in training and apprenticeships to address the skills gap and empower the next generation of talent (echoing the success of initiatives like the BMF’s apprenticeship programs).
• Consumer Protection: Ensuring robust safeguards and trust mechanisms for homeowners, from financial protection schemes to quality assurances, so that innovation in areas like retrofitting never compromises the end-user.
• NHIC’s “3Rs” Framework – Reduce, Respect, Rebuild: Anna Scothern introduced this new strategic framework as a roadmap for the future, focused on reducing poor practices through competence and compliance, respecting both the workforce and consumers, and rebuilding trust through better safeguards and data-driven oversight. The 3Rs encapsulate a values-led call to action for the coming years, aligning closely with the day’s discussions on improving standards and culture in the industry.

Throughout the panel, there was a strong sense of unity and purpose. Attendees heard how strengthening systems, skills, and safeguards is not optional but essential for a trusted, resilient future – a point emphasised by Anna Scothern in her closing remarks. The conversation reinforced that by valuing installers as professionals, collaborating across sectors, and keeping people at the heart of solutions, the home improvement sector can achieve sustainable, long-term progress.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for NHIC

Fittingly, the celebration at Westminster also looked to the road ahead for the NHIC. In a forward-looking announcement at the reception, Anna Scothern revealed that The Rt Hon Lord Jim Knight and The Rt Hon Lord Don Foster will take up roles as NHIC’s new Co-Presidents. This marks the first time the Council has appointed joint Presidents, a move that underscores a commitment to unity and cross-party collaboration at the highest level. Lord Knight (Labour) and Lord Foster (Liberal Democrat) are both highly respected Parliamentarians from different political backgrounds, symbolising a non-partisan, “all hands-on deck” approach to improving the nation’s homes. Their combined expertise – spanning education and skills, housing and energy efficiency, and consumer rights – will be invaluable in guiding the NHIC’s work on issues like closing the construction skills gap, advancing green home retrofits, and bolstering consumer confidence in home improvement.

As NHIC Chair Jon Vanstone noted, “Their appointment signals a renewed commitment to partnership, inclusivity and shared purpose across industry and government.” With Lord Knight and Lord Foster at the helm, the NHIC is entering a fresh chapter of leadership with a unified vision. This development, coming in the NHIC’s 50th year, reinforces the optimistic tone of the event – celebrating a proud history while actively laying foundations for the future.

Reflections: The NHIC’s 50th Anniversary Parliamentary Reception was not an ending, but a new beginning reinforcing NHIC’s role as the bridge between policy and practice for the decade ahead.

The event succeeded in both honouring how far the council and industry have come and inspiring everyone present toward the work still to be done. From the enthusiastic networking and insightful panel debate to the Stunell Award winners who exemplify purpose-driven leadership, the day was a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment in this sector. With a renewed strategic focus (the 3Rs framework) and new Co-Presidents championing its mission, the NHIC moves forward from this milestone with revitalised energy and unity – determined to ensure that everyone in the UK can live in a safe, healthy, and sustainable home for the next 50 years and beyond.

The NHIC’s 50th Anniversary Parliamentary Reception was not an ending, but a new beginning — reinforcing NHIC’s role as the bridge between policy and practice for the decade ahead.

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Established in 2024, the Stunell Award is named in honour of The Rt Hon. Lord Andrew Stunell OBE, a long-standing advocate for sustainable homes and safer communities. The award recognises individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to create positive, lasting change in the home improvement sector – whether through innovation, leadership, or a deep commitment to people and purpose. Presented annually, it underscores NHIC’s mission to inspire high standards in building practices and to “join the dots” between policy, delivery and lived experience in the RMI industry.

For 2025, the Stunell Award honoured two outstanding contributors: one individual and one organisation. Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive of HIES, HICS & DGCOS, was the individual winner, recognised for championing mental health and well-being in the home improvement sector. Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) received the organisational award for its transformative work on apprenticeships and skills development. Each winner exemplifies the leadership and forward-thinking values that the Stunell Award was created to celebrate.

Hussain’s leadership has brought mental health and well-being to the forefront of the home improvement industry. Under his guidance, practical support programmes have been introduced to help installers and staff manage the pressures of the job, and he has challenged stigma by promoting open conversations and embedding well-being into everyday business practices. Through NHIC forums and wider policy work, he ensured that installer well-being is recognised as a core part of workforce resilience, making a lasting difference – not just in words but through meaningful support for those who need it most. This focus on mental health within the sector has not only improved individual lives but is helping to build a more resilient and sustainable workforce for the future.

The Builders Merchants Federation has similarly driven change on a national scale. BMF has transformed the perception and delivery of apprenticeships across the home improvement supply chain, making skills development a top industry priority. Through its ambitious Apprenticeship Pledge – with over 15,000 training commitments signed and more than 1,200 apprentices now in post – the Federation has delivered measurable, scalable impact at pace. BMF has actively campaigned for apprenticeship levy flexibility, opening the door for SMEs to engage in apprenticeship schemes and making workforce development more accessible across the sector. Its research and policy insights (including the influential “Confidence to Employ and Invest” report) have strengthened NHIC’s national voice on skills and investment, helping to shape policy in support of training and recruitment. The result is not just a successful campaign but a cultural shift – apprenticeships are now part of the everyday language of business growth, setting a new standard for long-term leadership and transformation in the industry.

Jon Vanstone, Chair of the NHIC, praised the impact of this year’s winners, commenting: “In our 50th year, we are proud to honour these extraordinary leaders. Faisal Hussain has tirelessly championed mental well-being in our sector, breaking down stigma and ensuring those on the front lines have the support they need. Meanwhile, the Builders Merchants Federation’s commitment to apprenticeships and skills has opened doors for the next generation, transforming how our industry nurtures talent. Both winners truly embody the innovation, collaboration and dedication that the Stunell Award stands for. Their leadership is inspiring a brighter, more resilient future for home improvement.”

As the NHIC celebrates half a century of progress, the 2025 Stunell Award highlights the organisation’s collaborative mission. For 50 years, the Council has worked to unite government policy, industry delivery, and the lived experience of residents to improve the nation’s homes. This year’s winners personify that mission by turning policy ideals into practical action – fostering a safer, more skilled and healthier home improvement sector for the future. The NHIC will continue to champion such efforts as it advances its vision of safe, sustainable, high-quality homes for all.

2025 Stunell Award Winners – Website Announcement

In its 50th anniversary year, the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) is delighted to announce the winners of the 2025 Stunell Award, revealed at the NHIC’s Parliamentary Reception on 15 October 2025. The Stunell Award – named after Lord Andrew Stunell OBE, a lifelong advocate for better and safer homes – recognises those who drive positive, lasting change in the UK home improvement sector. This year’s honours went to one individual and one organisation, each exemplifying NHIC’s ethos of innovation, leadership and commitment to the industry’s people and purpose:

• Individual Winner: Faisal Hussain, Chief Executive of HIES, HICS & DGCOS – for championing mental health and well-being in the home improvement sector.
• Organisational Winner: Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) – for their transformative work on apprenticeships and skills development.

Faisal Hussain has brought mental health and well-being to the forefront of the home improvement industry. Under his leadership, new support programmes have helped installers and staff manage work-related stress, and he has fostered a culture of open conversation around mental health. Through his advocacy – within NHIC forums and beyond – Hussain ensured that caring for installer well-being is now recognised as essential to a resilient workforce. His efforts have made a tangible difference, providing vital support to workers and setting an example for how the sector can prioritize mental well-being alongside quality and safety.

The Builders Merchants Federation has been equally visionary in the arena of skills and training. By launching its Apprenticeship Pledge, with over 15,000 employer commitments and more than 1,200 apprentices placed in roles, the BMF has energised apprenticeship uptake across the home improvement supply chain. The Federation campaigned successfully for greater apprenticeship levy flexibility, enabling more small and medium-sized businesses to train apprentices and grow their talent pipelines. Backed by research such as the “Confidence to Employ and Invest” report, BMF’s work has bolstered the industry’s voice on skills policy. This has led to a culture change – making apprenticeships a mainstream path to business growth and setting a benchmark for long-term leadership in workforce development.

Jon Vanstone, NHIC Chair, commended the winners’ contributions: “Faisal and the BMF have each shown remarkable leadership in areas crucial to our industry’s future. By prioritising mental well-being and skills development, they are not only improving lives and businesses today, but also laying foundations for a stronger, more sustainable tomorrow. Their example embodies the NHIC’s mission to bridge policy and practice, and to put people at the heart of home improvement.”

Anna Scothern, Chief Executive of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC), said:
“The Stunell Award celebrates the spirit of collaboration and commitment that defines our sector. In our 50th year, it’s inspiring to see leaders like Faisal Hussain and the Builders Merchants Federation setting such powerful examples of purpose in action. Their work shows how much can be achieved when we care for people as much as we innovate for progress. Together, we are building a culture of wellbeing, skills, and sustainability that will strengthen our homes and communities for generations to come.”

This announcement comes as NHIC celebrates 50 years of joining up policy, delivery and lived experience in the RMI sector. For five decades, the Council has worked alongside its members and government to ensure homes across the UK are safer, greener and built on solid standards. The achievements of the 2025 Stunell Award winners reflect that collaborative mission – turning vision into action and inspiring all stakeholders in the home improvement community to strive for excellence.

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The National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) is delighted to announce the appointment of The Rt Hon Lord Jim Knight and The Rt Hon Lord Don Foster as Co-Presidents of the Council, subject to final endorsement by the NHIC Board. This leadership announcement was first shared at the NHIC’s Parliamentary Reception on 15 October 2025, where members and parliamentarians warmly welcomed the news. Following a series of thoughtful and constructive conversations, both Lord Knight and Lord Foster have agreed to take up the role of Co-Presidents – a move that heralds a new chapter of unity and fresh leadership for the NHIC.

A Unified, Cross-Party Leadership

Having two Co-Presidents at the helm is a first for the NHIC and reflects the Council’s commitment to unity and cross-party collaboration. Lord Knight and Lord Foster are both deeply respected Parliamentarians from different political backgrounds (Labour and Liberal Democrat, respectively), symbolising a non-partisan approach to improving the nation’s homes. Their joint presidency underscores that the mission of the NHIC – ensuring everyone in the UK can live in a safe, healthy, and affordable home – transcends party lines. By combining their strengths, the Co-Presidents will help build bridges across the political spectrum and within the industry, advocating for policies that benefit homeowners, tenants, and the home improvement sector as a whole.

Combined Experience Across Key Sectors

Between them, Lord Knight and Lord Foster bring an extraordinary breadth of experience in fields critical to the NHIC’s work, including education and skills development, housing policy, energy efficiency, and consumer protection. This combination of expertise is especially valuable as the NHIC tackles issues such as the construction skills gap, the push for greener homes, and the necessity for robust consumer protections in home improvement. Their co-leadership will strengthen the Council’s voice on issues ranging from vocational training in the building trades to sustainable housing initiatives and fair consumer standards.

• Education & Skills: Lord Knight was the UK’s longest-serving Schools Minister during the Blair/Brown government, with a portfolio spanning schools, employment, and digital technology. He has dedicated much of his career to improving education and training, serving as Minister for Schools and Learners (2006–2009) and later as Minister of State for Employment (2009–2010). In the House of Lords (as Baron Knight of Weymouth since 2010), he continues to champion skills development and innovation in education, bringing valuable insights into workforce training and development for the home improvement and construction industries.
• Housing & Energy Efficiency: Lord Foster (Baron Foster of Bath) has a distinguished record in housing and community affairs. As the Liberal Democrat MP for Bath from 1992 to 2015, and a minister in the Department for Communities and Local Government (2012–2013), he was actively involved in housing policy and local government initiatives. Lord Foster has long been a strong advocate for energy-efficient homes and environmental sustainability – notably introducing a Private Member’s Bill aimed at improving the energy performance of homes to at least EPC Band C by 2035. Now a life peer, he brings a wealth of knowledge on improving housing standards, reducing fuel poverty, and promoting sustainable home improvements, all of which align closely with the NHIC’s goals.
• Consumer Protection: Both Co-Presidents are committed to protecting consumers and ensuring quality within the home improvement sector. Lord Knight’s background in digital policy and community projects, and Lord Foster’s experience in local government and national energy initiatives, give them a keen understanding of the importance of trust, fairness, and safety for homeowners. Their leadership is expected to bolster the NHIC’s efforts in advocating for robust consumer protections – from supporting reputable trades and high standards, to championing measures that safeguard residents in retrofit and renovation projects. This focus on consumers complements the NHIC’s broader mission of improving homes and lives across the UK.

About Lord Jim Knight

The Rt Hon Lord Jim Knight of Weymouth PC is a Labour Co-operative politician with a career dedicated to education, employment, and social innovation. He served as an MP (2001–2010) and held several ministerial roles, most prominently as Schools Minister from 2006 to 2009 – becoming the longest-serving Schools Minister in the UK during the Blair/Brown era. In this role, and later as Employment Minister, he worked on raising the education leaving age and expanding training opportunities. Lord Knight’s portfolio in government also included digital inclusion and rural affairs, reflecting a versatile approach to policy. After being appointed to the House of Lords in 2010, he has continued to focus on education (for example, as a chief education adviser in the private sector) and on initiatives that leverage technology and skills training to benefit society. Lord Knight is passionate about lifelong learning and the role of new technologies in upskilling the workforce – perspectives that will greatly inform his guidance as NHIC Co-President on workforce development and innovation in home improvement.

About Lord Don Foster

The Rt Hon Lord Don Foster of Bath PC is a Liberal Democrat politician known for his contributions to housing, local government, and community well-being. He was the Member of Parliament for Bath for 23 years (1992–2015), during which time he championed issues such as urban regeneration, building safety, and consumer rights. In Parliament, Don Foster served as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government from 2012 to 2013, where his brief covered housing, localism and building regulations. A lifelong proponent of energy efficiency and sustainable housing, he has pushed for stronger government action on home insulation and carbon reduction. In 2021, Lord Foster introduced legislation in the House of Lords to require upgrades of home Energy Performance Certificates, reflecting his commitment to greener, more efficient homes. He also has a record of supporting consumer protection measures – for example, advocating for fair deals for energy consumers and safer building standards for residents. Elevated to the Lords in 2015, Lord Foster of Bath remains active on issues of fuel poverty, climate change, and community development. His expertise will help ensure the NHIC continues to lead on policies that make UK homes safer, warmer, and more affordable for all.

A Fresh Chapter for the NHIC

This joint appointment of Lord Knight and Lord Foster as Co-Presidents marks an exciting and celebratory new chapter for the National Home Improvement Council. It comes at a pivotal time, as the NHIC advances its work on improving home conditions, boosting retrofit and energy-efficiency measures, and addressing the skills and supply-chain challenges facing the sector. Their Co-Presidency reflects the NHIC’s desire to signal unity, cross-party collaboration, and fresh leadership for our next chapter, building on the legacy of past Presidents while looking to the future. The combined leadership of two experienced Parliamentarians sends a clear message: that ensuring better homes for everyone in the UK is a national priority that unites all sides of politics and society.

Anna Scothern, Chief Executive of the NHIC, welcomed the new Co-Presidents, saying: “We are thrilled to have Lord Knight and Lord Foster join us in these pivotal roles. Their wisdom, influence and passion for improvement will be invaluable as we continue our mission.” The NHIC Board’s final endorsement is expected shortly, after which Lords Knight and Foster will formally begin their tenure.

The NHIC and its members extend their heartfelt congratulations to Lord Knight and Lord Foster. With their guidance and support, the Council is confident in accelerating progress toward its vision of safe, healthy, energy-efficient homes for all UK residents. The NHIC looks forward to working under the co-presidents’ leadership, driving forward initiatives in education and skills, sustainable housing, and consumer protection that will benefit both industry professionals and the public. Together, we celebrate this moment of renewal and the promise it holds for the future of home improvement across the nation.

About the NHIC: Established in 1974, the National Home Improvement Council is the umbrella body for the UK’s home improvement sector. The NHIC represents almost 100,000 businesses carrying out repairs, maintenance, and improvements in home. As the voice of home improvement in the UK, it works with government, industry, and communities to promote better housing quality, energy efficiency, and consumer safety. The Council’s aim is for everyone in the UK to live in a safe, healthy, and affordable home – a goal it pursues through research, advocacy, and collaboration across the sector. With the new Co-Presidents providing cross-party leadership, the NHIC is poised to strengthen its impact and drive positive change in the months and years ahea

Quote from Anna Scothern, NHIC Chief Executive

“It’s an honour to welcome both Lord Knight and Lord Foster as Co-Presidents of the NHIC. Their combined experience across housing, skills, energy efficiency and consumer protection reflects exactly the kind of cross-sector collaboration we need to meet the challenges facing our nation’s homes.

Their leadership will help strengthen our collective voice, rebuild trust, and drive progress towards safer, healthier, and more sustainable homes for everyone.

Quote from Jon Vanstone, NHIC Chair

“On behalf of the NHIC Board, I’m delighted to welcome Lord Knight and Lord Foster as our new Co-Presidents.

Their appointment signals a renewed commitment to partnership, inclusivity and shared purpose across industry and government. I look forward to working with them both as we continue to champion the people and organisations improving the quality and standards of homes across the UK.”

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Protect What Matters: Financial Protection Mechanisms in Home Improvement. 

The report highlights the growing financial risks faced by homeowners undertaking retrofit and renovation works — including lost deposits, non-completion, and contractor insolvency, and calls for urgent, coordinated action to raise standards, reduce harm, and rebuild consumer trust. 

Developed in collaboration with members of the NHIC Financial Protection Working Group, including financial protection providers, redress schemes, trade bodies, and sector experts, the report outlines practical measures that government and industry can adopt to embed greater resilience and confidence in the home improvement journey. 

Anna Scothern, Chief Executive of the NHIC, said: 

“This report marks a significant step forward in reducing risk and increasing trust for homeowners. Consumers deserve to feel confident when improving their homes, and this work provides a roadmap to help industry and government make that a reality.” 

Key recommendations include: 

• Establishing a minimum protection standard across the sector 

• Creating a national register of approved financial protection schemes 

• Introducing clearer consumer-facing Key Facts documentation 

• Improving redress coordination between schemes and ombudsman services 

Jon Vanstone, Chair of the NHIC and the Financial Protection Working Group, added: 

“As Chair of the NHIC and the Financial Protection Working Group, I believe this report is a timely and practical contribution to safeguarding consumers and rebuilding trust in the home improvement sector. Clear, consistent financial protections are essential if we’re serious about driving uptake of retrofit measures and delivering net zero fairly. These recommendations offer a pathway to stronger protections without adding unnecessary burden, supporting households, small businesses and the wider market alike.” 

The report will be formally presented to the Construction Leadership Council RMI on 22 July 2025 and has already been shared with government departments, regulators, and key sector stakeholders as part of a coordinated engagement campaign. 

The publication forms a core output of NHIC’s wider Protect What Matters initiative — part of The Home Is Where Our Heart Is campaign, marking 50 years of home improvement. 

Download the full report now

We invite industry bodies, trade associations, and financial protection providers to support the recommendations and help drive adoption across the sector. A media and stakeholder toolkit is available on request. 

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At the heart of our presence was The Knowledge Hub, supported by the Construction Leadership Council and proudly presented in partnership with our Knowledge Hub Partner, TrustMark. The Hub served as a vibrant platform for discussion around the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities in home improvement, from regulation and competence to mental health, green skills, and retrofit delivery.

Over the course of the week, we hosted nine sessions covering key themes such as building safety, compliance, training, and sustainability. With more than 35 expert speakers, including industry regulators, policy experts, and representatives from leading organisations, the sessions were packed with practical advice, policy updates, and first-hand experiences from the frontlines of home improvement.

We were proud to feature speakers from organisations including the Health and Safety Executive, LABC, TrustMark, The IAA, CORGI Services, Band of Builders, Greenworkx, DGCOS, NAPIT, FENSA, and more. From compliance obligations under the Building Safety Act to skills pathways for green technologies, every panel delivered actionable insights for professionals working across the retrofit and RMI sectors.

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and partners. A heartfelt thank you to:

• TrustMark – our Knowledge Hub Partner
• Digital Buildings – our Digital Partner
• Energystore – our Energy Partner
• Fernox – sponsors of our 50th anniversary drinks reception
• GGF (Glass and Glazing Federation) – Seminar Sponsor
• FETA (Federation of Environmental Trade Associations) – Speaker Sponsor
• QANW – Seminar Sponsor

Their support enabled us to deliver a space for real conversation, innovation, and connection.

As we look to the future, NHIC remains committed to driving forward the transformation of UK homes, ensuring they are safer, healthier, more energy-efficient, and fit for the future. InstallerSHOW 2025 was a major milestone, not just for us as an organisation, but for the wider industry, which showed up in force to share knowledge, collaborate, and inspire.

To everyone who visited stand 4I40, engaged with The Knowledge Hub, asked questions, contributed expertise, or supported us from afar, thank you.

We are more energised than ever to continue this work, together.

Here’s to the next 50 years!

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Championing Technical Excellence and Industry Standards

FETA represents the UK’s principal manufacturers, suppliers, installers, and contractors across the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration sectors. With five specialist associations—HEVAC, BRA, HPA, BFCMA, and ADCAS—FETA plays a central role in advancing technical guidance, policy input, and sustainable product innovation.

Their sponsorship of The Knowledge Hub reflects a shared commitment to driving competence, compliance, and collaboration in the built environment.

Sharing Insight Across Retrofit, Regulation, and Innovation

At InstallerSHOW 2025, The Knowledge Hub will deliver 12 engaging sessions covering some of the most urgent themes in home improvement—from regulatory reform and skills shortages to smart homes and decarbonisation. FETA’s involvement ensures technical expertise is front and centre, helping attendees navigate both opportunities and responsibilities as the sector evolves.

A Trusted Voice on the Future of Environmental Technologies

As demand grows for energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, FETA continues to shape conversations around best practice, safety, and sustainability. Their support enables NHIC to host panels that give installers, manufacturers, and specifiers the knowledge they need to adapt and thrive—especially as the industry moves toward a net zero future.

A Shared Mission with the NHIC

At NHIC, our work is about uniting the voices of the home improvement sector to promote quality, safety, and progress. FETA’s support strengthens that mission, reinforcing the importance of collaboration across every corner of the supply chain—from tradespeople on site to regulatory leaders and technical experts.

See You at Stand 4I40

We’re thrilled to have FETA on board and invite all InstallerSHOW attendees to join us at The Knowledge Hub (Stand 4I40) for vital discussions on how we build better homes and a better future.

Together with our sponsors and supporters, we look forward to welcoming you from 24–26 June 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.

The post FETA Backs Industry Expertise at The Knowledge Hub at InstallerSHOW 2025 appeared first on The NHIC.

Fernox has long been recognised as a pioneer in water treatment and system protection for heating systems. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, Fernox has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, creating products that enhance efficiency, reliability, and longevity across domestic and commercial installations. Their commitment to sustainability and technical excellence makes them a natural partner for this year’s Knowledge Hub at InstallerSHOW, supported by the Construction Leadership Council.

More Than a Toast: Why Fernox Matters

Sponsoring the Drinks Reception isn’t just about celebration—it’s about connecting people and fostering the relationships that power progress. Fernox’s involvement highlights the importance of collaboration across all levels of the supply chain, from manufacturers and engineers to regulators and retrofit specialists.

This year’s reception will serve as a key networking opportunity, giving attendees a chance to unwind, reflect on the sessions of the day, and engage in valuable conversations with fellow industry professionals.

By aligning with the NHIC at InstallerSHOW, Fernox signals its commitment to:

• Cleaner, more efficient homes – through innovations in chemical water treatment, filters, and testing products that support system performance and energy efficiency.
• Sustainable transformation – contributing to decarbonisation goals by reducing system failures and increasing the lifespan of heating equipment.
• Industry collaboration – building stronger links between manufacturers, installers, and the organisations shaping our regulatory future.

A Legacy of Innovation

From launching the first chemical water treatment product in the 1960s to developing cutting-edge smart filters and diagnostic tools today, Fernox continues to lead by example. Their expert knowledge and product development support professionals in navigating an increasingly complex regulatory and performance landscape—something that resonates with the NHIC’s Knowledge Hub themes of compliance, upskilling, and sustainability.

Celebrating the Sector

Taking place on-site at InstallerSHOW, Stand 4I40, the Fernox-sponsored Drinks Reception will be a highlight of the three-day event. With thought leadership on stage in the Knowledge Hub and industry expertise in every aisle, this moment offers a well-earned pause to celebrate how far we’ve come—and to toast what comes next.

We’re honoured to have Fernox standing alongside us as we mark our 50th year and continue to champion innovation, quality, and collaboration across the built environment.

The post Raising a Glass to Innovation: Fernox Sponsors the InstallerSHOW Drinks Reception appeared first on The NHIC.

Digital transformation is no longer a vision of the future—it’s the reality of today’s home improvement sector. From connected homes and energy monitoring to smart retrofits and automation in building controls, the integration of digital infrastructure is a defining shift in how we create safe, efficient, and intelligent living spaces.

Why Digital Buildings?

Digital Buildings is at the forefront of this transformation. As experts in delivering intelligent infrastructure for modern homes and buildings, their work goes far beyond digital connectivity. They provide the essential frameworks and systems that enable smarter, more efficient environments—supporting everything from energy optimisation and environmental controls to occupant well-being and data-driven decision-making.

By joining the NHIC Knowledge Hub as Digital Partner, Digital Buildings will contribute invaluable insight into the role of digital innovation across all aspects of the home improvement journey—from design and construction to retrofit and smart home enablement.

Shaping Smarter Homes Through Knowledge

At InstallerSHOW 2025, Digital Buildings will help drive discussions around:

• Connected home ecosystems
• IoT integration and energy monitoring
• Digital standards and infrastructure in retrofits
• The future of building management systems (BMS)
• Improving occupant comfort and operational performance

These aren’t just technology topics—they’re home improvement issues. In a sector increasingly driven by performance, compliance, and efficiency, digital is not an add-on—it’s essential.

A Partnership That Reflects Our Future

We’re proud to partner with Digital Buildings because their vision so clearly aligns with our mission: to support a sector that is skilled, safe, sustainable, and future-ready. As part of the NHIC Knowledge Hub, their contributions will help us shape the national conversation around digital capability in the built environment.

As homes become smarter, and as policy shifts continue to demand more energy-efficient, responsive buildings, partnerships like this one are crucial. They show how industry leaders can work together to not only adapt—but lead.

📍 Visit the NHIC Knowledge Hub, Stand 4I40, at InstallerSHOW 2025
🗓️ June 24–26, NEC Birmingham
🔗 Learn more about Digital Buildings
🔗 See the agenda and book your free ticket

The post Driving Digital Transformation in Home Improvement: Welcoming Digital Buildings as our Digital Partner at InstallerSHOW 2025 appeared first on The NHIC.