The UK Woodchain has put in place a full-scale research programme less than a year after the group was established.
UK Woodchain, which comprises all parts of the timber and forest industry including joinery, pallets/packaging and timber frame, has started the programme to support a drive towards world-class performance.
Key research involves producing a “map” of the sector which can be used to identify strengths and weaknesses in the resources available to businesses.
This will be achieved by examining the jobs and operations in the wood chain through consultation with employers.
Other research includes reviewing the outdated standards underpinning awards for sawmilling and wood-machining; a study of how businesses are dealing with an ageing workforce; and research to design a vocational awards scheme covering apprentices and experienced staff.
Findings will be reported early in 2006, at the same time as UK Woodchain completes two demonstration projects in Wales, where the group has been trialling ideas with support from EU and Welsh Assembly funding.
Group secretary Mike Marchant said: “UK Woodchain’s ambition is for the sector to be fully equipped to operate to the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness and our research programme points the way to achieving that ambition.”
The group’s efforts next year will centre on using the research findings to provide better resources to the entire UK sector, mainly through regional initiatives and working with a public agencies.
