UKCW Birmingham has collaborated with poet and storyteller, Casey Bailey, on a specially commissioned poem entitled ‘Bricks and More Than’ to raise awareness of the tough issues currently faced by the construction industry. The poem also creatively covers the vision for the industry and encourages young people to consider a career in construction.

Sneak preview:

There's a skills gap to address, and perceptions to be fixed,

So many still think that construction is just cement and laying bricks,

For every person in a hard hat, high vis and steel capped boots,

There’s some one sorting logistics, to guide along the route,

There are people holding pencils there are people holding spades,

It’s a journey from an idea to something being made.

Casey will be performing ‘Bricks and More Than’ to mark the show’s opening at 10am at entrance to the show.

The poet recently created a love letter to the city of Birmingham called ‘Dear Brum’, commissioned by Birmingham City Council ahead of the Commonwealth Games 2022; the poem was a huge hit internationally.

Casey will be available for interviews after performing the poem at UKCW Birmingham.

West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street - Thursday 6th October

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has been announced as a VIP keynote speaker at UK Construction Week Birmingham (UKCW Birmingham), the UK’s largest event for the built environment.

UKCW Question Time with Andy Street will take place on the main stage on Thursday 6th October at 12.10pm, and will see Mr Street answering Midanders' major construction questions on the Future Homes Strategy; the Housing and Land Board; careers and skills; infrastructure; transport; regeneration and much more.

He will be available for a limited number of interviews discussing the region’s construction industry following the stage event.

When: Tuesday 4th October (10am) & Thursday 6th October (12.10pm)

Where: NEC Birmingham

What: Birmingham poet, Casey Bailey - Tuesday 4th October

To attend: Please contact Jon Perks or Allyson Loots at cab campaign - ukcw@cabcampaign.co.uk