Leigh-based construction training specialist DMR Training has been awarded a huge funding boost through the UK Government’s Warm Homes Skills Programme, strengthening its role in tackling the national shortage of skilled trades workers.

The £8m initiative, led by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, will fund up to 9,000 subsidised training places across England.

DMR Training will focus delivery on insulation and building treatments – including loft, internal wall, external wall, underfloor, room-in-roof, and framed section insulation.

Dave Radley, Managing Director at DMR Training said: “We are all absolutely thrilled to have been selected for this programme, this funding is a huge endorsement of our proven delivery model.

Trainee at DMR cutting through a block of insulation foam.

placeholder image — Trainee at DMR cutting through a block of insulation foam.

“It shows commissioners trust us to deliver high-quality training at scale and it allows us to further extend our specialist knowledge to tradespeople countrywide.”

The programme aims to promote accessibility into the industry and takes the form of heavily subsidised NVQs for anyone with a Postcode in England - this can be either a first-step qualification or subsequent NVQ qualification.

Beyond technical knowledge, DMR Training will be placing a strong emphasis on preparing candidates for the everyday realities of the job.

“Our learners don’t just develop the practical skills required on-site, but also the professionalism and problem-solving mindset that’s required for the modern construction industry.

“This announcement comes at a time when we’re seeing huge demand for Retrofit and insulation across the sector. DMR training has always tried to break down barriers for people wanting to enter these trades and this funding will allow us to deliver essential skills to tradespeople across the country to address this need.”

Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said: “Under our plan to upgrade up to five million homes this Parliament, we are investing £8 million to train thousands of skilled workers for our clean energy workforce – from installing solar to fitting insulation.

“Today we have announced successful providers across the North West, who will be offering a mix of online courses and face-to-face teaching.

“We want to help even more people seize the opportunities of our clean energy mission, so would encourage anyone interested to look at the training on offer and see what support you can get.”