The government's Your First Home scheme could postpone market demand, Oxford graduate joins the trades, and a plumber commits one day to free community work
The government’s recently launched Your First Home scheme, designed to kickstart demand for new builds, could delay the market’s recovery.
In a trading update, housebuilder MJ Gleeson, raised concerns about the timing of the programme, which won’t open for loan applications until February,
In the meantime, the announcement made in the Autumn budget statement is likely to “postpone demand” in the intervening period and increase cancellations.
Consequently, the homebuilder predicted a weaker first half of the year, with recovery increasingly dependent on the efficiency and timely introduction of the scheme.
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More post-graduates are switching careers and moving into the trades.
Abi Watkinson, who graduated from Oxford University, was already experiencing early career burnout.
After struggling to find a female tradesperson, the 25-year-old realised she should join the industry.
She has since retrained as an electrician and now aims to qualify as a mechanical engineer.
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Starting in December, a plumbing and heating engineer in Cornwall plans to give one day of his time, labour, and materials completely free to help those who cannot afford essential repairs.
Trevelyan White hopes that his initiative will encourage other local tradespeople, suppliers and charities to get on board.
In a Facebook post, White said: “If you’re in a position to give back, you should.”
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