By Sean Houlston, Associate Director of Membership
At the start of the year, I wrote about what the National Federation of Builders would deliver for members in 2026. Only a few months in, it is already clear that this is going to be a busy and productive year for the NFB and the contractors we represent. Across policy, training, digital services and member engagement, the focus remains on making membership personal, professional and pioneering.
One of the most important developments this year has been strengthening how we connect members with each other. Construction remains a relationship-driven industry, and contractors repeatedly tell us that visibility and collaboration across the sector matter just as much as advice and representation. That is why we launched the new NFB Member Directory, designed to make it easier for contractors, clients and partners to find and work with professional NFB members. The directory promotes member businesses across the country and across specialisms, helping contractors showcase their expertise and credentials.
Training and professional development are another major focus this year. The construction sector is going through a period of regulatory change, and contractors need practical support to stay compliant and competitive.
One key initiative is the NFB Building Safety Act Awareness Training. The Building Safety Act represents one of the most significant regulatory shifts the industry has seen in decades. For many contractors, understanding how the new regime affects their responsibilities, documentation and project processes can feel daunting. Our training sessions are designed to give members a clear and practical overview of the legislation, helping businesses understand what is required and how they should respond.
We are also investing in leadership development through the NFB Leadership Diploma, delivered by leadership expert Vaughan Hart. Construction businesses are built on skilled people, but technical expertise alone does not automatically translate into leadership capability. The diploma is a four-part programme designed to develop confident leaders who can guide their teams, manage change and grow their businesses in an increasingly complex market.
Another highlight of the year so far has been the continued work of our sector groups and regional meetings. These forums allow members to shape the NFB’s priorities while sharing insight from the front line of the industry.
For example, the NFB Heritage Group recently met with the Shadow Culture Secretary to set out the priorities of specialist heritage contractors. These discussions focused on skills, procurement, and the importance of maintaining the specialist expertise needed to protect Britain’s historic built environment. As the professional association representing many of the country’s leading heritage contractors, the NFB continues to ensure that this vital sector has a strong voice in policy discussions. If you work in this sector and haven’t already done so, talk to us about our Heritage Approved Contractor Mark.
Our regional engagement is also expanding. The recent NFB Wales National Meeting brought together contractors from across Wales to discuss the challenges facing the sector and the opportunities ahead. Meetings like this are essential because they allow members to engage directly with the NFB, share their experience and influence the work we do on their behalf.
Recognition is another important part of strengthening the industry, and entries are now open for the Construction Awards of Excellence. These awards celebrate the organisations, projects and individuals delivering outstanding work across the construction sector. For members who have delivered great projects or demonstrated exceptional professionalism, it is an opportunity to gain recognition from peers across the industry.
Looking ahead, there is much more to come this year. From further training and policy engagement to new networking opportunities and digital services, the NFB remains focused on helping contractors succeed.
If you have not yet explored all the services available to you, now is a good time to start. Speak to your membership manager, join one of our upcoming meetings, or simply Ask NFB.
