A new Scheme Provider will increase the availability of trained, skilled workers able to carry out energy efficiency improvements in homes in Wales.
TrustMark’s newest Scheme Provider, NetRet, is its first to be based in Wales and is focused on supporting the housing sector to achieve its net zero goals through the likes of the Optimised Retrofit Programme.
Providing training (including NVQ level and vocational), guidance and certification, NetRet aims to help upskill the workforce within the social housing sector to overcome some of the supply chain and skills gap issues.
Through its comprehensive support services, NetRet equips social landlords, individuals and contractors with the necessary tools, training, and ongoing assistance to achieve excellence in energy efficiency and low-carbon projects.
Businesses can register with NetRet to become TrustMark registered, enabling them to demonstrate their commitment to quality (PAS 2035), consumer protection and maintaining high standards. TrustMark Registered Businesses with NetRet will also receive TrustMark’s Licence Plus registration.
NetRet will support the supply chain of products and services, working in partnership with the Welsh Government and Wales’ Academic community in the development of a Net Zero Workforce for Wales.
Simon Ayers, CEO, TrustMark said:
“We’re delighted to welcome NetRet as a Scheme Provider, offering the opportunity for more businesses to upskill their people and help meet the challenges of decarbonising homes in Wales.
“Helping to grow the availability of trained, skilled workers able to carry out energy efficiency improvements in homes in Wales is to be welcomed and we look forward to working with NetRet.”
Andrew Partington, Head of Partnerships at NetRet said:
“As a recognised TrustMark Scheme Provider, we ensure exceptional quality and standards at every stage of our service.
“Our commitment to accessible and best-in-class advice and guidance makes us the go-to partner for those who seek to make a positive impact on the environment and their communities.
“At NetRet, we are committed to creating a sustainable future by empowering individuals, contractors, and the housing sector with the skills and certifications needed for success. We're dedicated to safeguarding jobs, creating new business opportunities, and bridging the skills gap with the assurances of the TrustMark Scheme Provider status”
Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething said:
“The Welsh Government is committed to growing the skilled and diverse workforce Wales needs to work in the green jobs of the future, which will be crucial in helping us meet our net zero commitments and transition to a greener economy.
“So I very much welcome the launch of NetRet as TrustMark’s first Scheme Provider based in Wales. Having a TrustMark provider in Wales is a great step forward in helping us deliver our future skills needs in the construction sector.
“The skills system in Wales is already supporting a broad range of construction specialisms, including new and emerging energy efficiency training. Through our Personal Learning Account programme, we’re investing £2m in a new Green PLA pilot to strengthen the offer even further.”
TrustMark is the only Government-endorsed Quality Scheme covering work carried out in or around the home. Operating across the UK, TrustMark is a not-for-profit social enterprise that continually re-invests in the scheme to support Scheme Providers and Registered Businesses to improve consumer protection and standards across all sectors.
Consumers can access TrustMark registered businesses via the online directory: www.trustmark.org.uk/homeowner
Tradespeople wishing to register with TrustMark can find out more via: www.trustmark.org.uk/business/information-and-guidance/join-trustmark