Welcome to the CFA Blog. This area will be used to inform members on topics such as Coronavirus (Covid-19), Brexit, relevant industry and other news, training information and updates, and also case studies and articles from CFA members.
Ahead of the next phase of the building safety regime coming into effect from 1 October, Build UK has updated its guide and timeline to reflect the regulations and supporting guidance that have recently been published. Changes in the July 2023 version of the guide, which is supported by the CLC, include:
Clarifying the definition of a Higher‐Risk Building
A link to the guidance on Key Building Information (KBI), which must be submitted as part of the registration process for High‐Rise Residential Buildings
Updated information on the new building control framework
New guidance on Planning Gateway One and confirmation that hospitals and care homes are excluded from the requirements
An updated link to guidance on the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order.
To ensure businesses across the supply chain are aware of their responsibilities under the new regime, Build UK is sharing its guide through Building Magazine. In an article published earlier this week, Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol explained: “We believe that helping the whole supply chain to see the bigger picture will make it easier for everyone to understand where they fit in and what their responsibilities are…No one company or organisation can do this alone. We talk a lot about collaboration and this really does need a combined effort from Team Construction.”
Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of CITB, recently attended a Build UK Forum to give an overview of the CITB Business Plan 2023/24 and what has been delivered since the last Consensus in 2021. In line with Build UK’s ‘Levy In ‐ Skills Out’ response, CITB has streamlined activity and its latest business plan sets out three key priorities ‐ improving construction’s people pipeline, creating defined training pathways, and delivering an efficient training supply ‐ to support the industry to have a skilled, competent and inclusive workforce now and in the future.
The Department for Education (DfE) has launched an independent review of CITB and ECITB to assess whether they are performing effectively and delivering services that meet the needs of the industry. The review is being led by Mark Farmer, and Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol has been invited to join the ‘Challenge Panel’, which is expected to meet at least twice during the review to discuss emerging evidence, interim findings and final conclusions.
BAM Construction has become the latest Build UK member to specify the Common Assessment Standard for its pre‐qualification requirements, with Head of Procurement Dan Billinge confirming: “At BAM, we are always exploring ways to create efficiencies for our valued supply chain partners…By introducing the Common Assessment Standard as our pre‐qualification process, we are now accepting all Recognised Assessment Bodies, resulting in reduced cost and time for our partners.”
BAM Construction joins a growing list of organisations using the Common Assessment Standard, and members of the supply chain can now obtain just one certification from any of the Recognised Assessment Bodies in order to tender for work with them. The Common Assessment Standard, which is endorsed by the CLC, has two levels of certification ‐ desktop and site‐based ‐ and companies should apply for the appropriate level depending on their trade, size and the requirements of their clients.
CITB has published its latest Migration and Construction report focussing on how the industry has responded to the introduction of the Points‐Based Immigration System (PBIS). Under this system, businesses recruiting workers from outside the UK need to obtain a sponsor licence and all such workers require a visa to work in the UK, with the exception of Irish citizens and EEA/Swiss nationals with EU Settled Status. The report highlights a lack of awareness of the system, with just half of employers surveyed being aware of it and only 7% having signed up as a licensed sponsor.
Under the PBIS, most workers from outside the UK in construction are ‘skilled workers’ and require a Skilled Worker visa to work in an eligible occupation. Build UK's flowchart provides an overview of the process of employing a worker from outside the UK, with detailed guidance on How to Get a Sponsor Licence and How to Get a Skilled Worker Visa.
Following the issue of PPN 03/23 earlier this year, which allows public sector bodies to use the Common Assessment Standard in place of PAS 91, Build UK has published an updated version of the Common Assessment Standard. Version 3.2 includes minor updates to the question set and associated guidance to reflect further legislative changes post‐Brexit and to provide additional clarity for companies being certified. Suppliers will now be required to answer the updated question set when they go through the certification process for the Common Assessment Standard.
We have also collated a series of communication tools to help promote the Common Assessment Standard across the supply chain. These include new Frequently Asked Questions for public sector bodies looking to use the Common Assessment Standard for their pre‐qualification requirements.
The JCT suite of contracts identifies a number of events known as ‘Specified Perils’ that might cause damage, for example fire, lightning, explosions and floods, which are outside the coverage of indemnities provided by the supply chain. In the event a Specified Peril occurs, the standard position under JCT is that the supply chain has no liability for delay but cannot recover their costs from the client, and the client has no liability to the supply chain but cannot recover delay damages. However, it has become increasingly common to include provisions that remove the supply chain’s immunity from liability for delays where the Specified Peril was caused by them, shifting the balance of risk unevenly in favour of clients. Build UK recommends that the standard JCT position is followed and parties do not include provisions which state that Specified Perils will not give rise to an extension of time where caused by the contractor/sub‐contractor.
Specified Perils is one of six terms covered in Build UK’s recommendation on contract terms designed to encourage a fairer allocation of risk between clients and the supply chain. We have published guidance explaining why each term should be avoided and setting out ways to manage the underlying issues more effectively. The recommendation is non‐binding and Build UK members are free to negotiate their own contractual terms.
The Government has confirmed that it remains committed to building 40 new hospitals by 2030 and will invest over £20 billion into the New Hospital Programme (NHP). The list now includes five existing hospitals that will be rebuilt as they contain a significant amount of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) which has a limited lifespan and is at risk of failure, plus three new mental health facilities that are not part of the NHP. As a result, eight projects that were included in the original list of 40 have been pushed back until after 2030.
Build UK recently facilitated the first collaborative roundtable with the NHP, one of our Client members, which brought together Contractor members to look at how the industry could work with the NHP to deliver one of the largest programmes in the UK.
The Building Safety Act is the foundation of a new building safety regime for the construction sector and represents the most significant change to industry regulation in a generation. With many of the new requirements coming into force this year, Build UK has published a comprehensive overview of the regime to ensure all members are aware of their responsibilities. The guide includes information on:
- New bodies that will provide effective oversight of the new regime
- New responsibilities for all those who design, build, own or manage Higher Risk Buildings
- New systems designed to improve levels of competence and formalise processes
- Existing legislation which will be reformed
- Other activities outside the scope of the Act but related to building safety.
The guide, which is initially being made available to Build UK members only, will be regularly updated as secondary legislation and supporting guidance from industry is published. It has been welcomed by Dame Judith Hackitt, Chair of the Industry Safety Steering Group, who said: “This guide provides Build UK members across the supply chain with a clear and accessible summary of what the Building Safety Act means for them and their organisation. I urge you to not just read this guide but to then discuss what it means for your organisation and how your practices need to change.”
Government announces phased mandation of Making Tax Digital for ITSA
Self-employed individuals and landlords will have more time to prepare for Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA), following a government announcement.
Understanding that self-employed individuals and landlords are currently facing a challenging economic environment, and the transition to Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA) represents a significant change to taxpayers and HMRC for how self-employment and property income is reported, the government is giving a longer period to prepare for MTD. The mandatory use of software is therefore being phased in from April 2026, rather than April 2024.
Over 60% of large companies in the UK reported having cyber security breaches or attacks in 2020/21 and the construction sector is particularly vulnerable due to its complex supply chains and high cash flow.
Continue reading on this topic in the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
Planning is already well underway for Open Doors 2023 which will be delivered by Build UK in partnership with CITB from Monday 13 ‐ Saturday 18 March 2023.
Last week was Mental Health Awareness Week and the focus this year was on loneliness and the practical steps that can be taken to address it, which is particularly relevant for construction with many workers working away from home for long periods of time.
With construction needing to recruit more than 43,000 new entrants every year to maintain output, it is essential to improve the Journey from Education to Employment in the industry. Build UK has identified the first steps on this journey.
To read more please log into the CFA members area here.
The Building Safety Bill has now received Royal Assent and become law, paving the way for the most significant changes to building safety regulation in a generation.
To read more on this topic and for the full Building Safety Act, please log into the CFA Members Area.
The Construction Products Association (CPA) has released its latest quarterly forecast, which shows that global issues are starting to affect the UK market.
This is now available in the CPA section of the CFA Members Area.
In light of recent Parliamentary discussions on the use of retentions in construction, Build UK and other members of the CLC have met with Construction Minister Lee Rowley to discuss how Government and industry can work together on this issue, building on the work previously undertaken by Build UK through their Roadmap to Zero Retentions.
To read more about the new update from Build UK, please log into the CFA members area.
The CLC supports theConflict Avoidance Pledge, developed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, which commits clients and contractors to implementing conflict avoidance measures in contracts and on site, with the aim of helping to deliver projects on time and budget with fewer disputes.
To read the full Conflict Avoidance Pledge please log into the CFA members area.
Following the withdrawal of the Working Safely During Coronavirus guidance, the Government has published public health principles for reducing the spread of respiratory infections in the workplace.
To view this document please log into the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
Build UK has published a new ‘Drive Out Diesel’ guide designed to help the industry reduce its reliance on diesel.
The Department for International Trade (DIT) has also published the Automotive Roadmap, which brings together the Government’s policies to decarbonise road transport in the UK.
Both are now available in the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
The Chancellor has used his Spring Statement to ‘help people and businesses deal with rising costs’ and strengthen the UK economy in the face of global uncertainty following COVID‐19 and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Log in to the Build UK section of the CFA members area to read the full statement now.
This update focuses on the impacts of the Ukraine war, with interesting analysis and predictions such as:
“As a result, we anticipate that inflation will rise above 8.5% in the Spring and remain stubbornly high in Summer.”
“Whilst the focus is primarily on the impact on construction products, the rise in general inflation will lead to upward pressure on wages for labour in the construction supply chain. Occupations, particularly trades that are already in high demand, are likely to push robustly for higher wage rises to ensure that their real wages do not fall during a period of strong general price inflation.”
Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, has responded to the Home Builders Federation (HBF) regarding its proposal.
Read more on this topic and a full Building Safety Update in the Build UK section of the CFA members area. Log in here.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol attended a meeting with Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng to discuss the impact of the war on different sectors of the UK economy.
Read more on this topic and how the Construction industry in particular will be affected in the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
CFA Members: Have your say on National Occupational Standards
The CFA will be working in conjunction with CITB to review the current Floorcovering National Occupational Standards (NOS) from April 2022 onwards.
NOS provide benchmarks for competent performance in training and qualifications.
We are keen to show strong CFA member support to CITB in this review and therefore are looking for CFA members from micro to large employers from across the UK to engage.
It is important to also have input from training providers delivering training programmes and assessing floorlaying qualifications as they are key to understanding what is taught/ what can be taught and how long it takes to teach people these skills.
For more information and for those who are interested in taking part on behalf of CFA please contact Training Manager Shaun Wadsworth shaun@cfa.org.uk before 1 April 2022 to be put forward as a CFA nominee.
The new CSCS Smart Check app will be rolled out from next month, in line with the objective in the CLC Industry Card Schemes Recommendation for all card schemes carrying the CSCS logo to use Smart Technology.
Read more on this topic in the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment.
Proposal: N 1403 ISO/TC 219, ISO/NP 24342 (Ed 4) Resilient and textile floor-coverings -- Determination of side length, edge straightness and squareness of tiles.
Feel free to share this information with your wider organisations or colleagues who may have an interest. Any comments received will be submitted to PRI/60 & PRI/3 for consideration when deciding the UK response to ISO.
If you have not used this system before, you will need to register here.
How to apply the VAT reverse charge for construction services
In March 2021, changes were introduced in the way VAT is accounted for in the construction industry.
CFA members are eligible to join a HMRC live webinar, on 24 March to get up to date with the changes and find out if they affect you. You can ask questions using the on-screen text box.
In the webinar HMRC will explain:
•when to apply the VAT reverse charge
•how to show the reverse charge on your invoices
•what to do if you make a mistake when applying the reverse charge.
To register to attend please email info@cfa.org.uk
National Careers Week 2022 kicked off on Monday and will run until this Saturday 12 Marchwith the aim of promoting careers guidance to young people leaving education. Coming at an important stage in the academic calendar, NCW gives young people an insight into the world of work and members can get involved by:
Celebrating your rising stars ‐ Put your employees front and centre on social media to showcase different career routes using the hashtag #NCW2022
Promoting your vacancies ‐ Ensure all your opportunities for new entrants are registered on Talentview Construction to make it as easy as possible for young people to join our industry
Using GoConstruct ‐ Share information on the range of career options in construction to help the next generation find a role that suits them.
This is a great opportunity to promote your work around careers to a wider audience, and further ideas on how get involved are available in the NCW Social Media Guide.
Following the lifting of the remaining coronavirus restrictions in England, Build UK has updated its COVID‐19 flowchart to reflect the latest Government guidance.
With construction needing to recruit over 43,000 new entrants every year for the next five years to maintain output, Build UK has published the results of a snapshot survey of its Contractor members as a step towards understanding their role in the process.
Log into the Build UK section of the CFA member area to view the reports.
All sectors, including construction, are likely to be affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as factories in the Ukraine cease production and the UK Government imposes further sanctions on Russia.
Members are advised to assess the potential economic impact, including increased energy prices and the supply of products and services that may be affected. Anyone employing Ukrainian or Russian nationals is also encouraged to check in with them to see if they need any support.
Please log into the CFA members area to read the full guidance and support avaliable.
Temporary changes to right to work checks introduced in response to the coronavirus pandemic have been extended again and will now end on 30 September 2022.
Read more in the Build UK section of the CFA members area. Log in here.
The CLC has published its Annual Review & Plan for 2022, which looks back on what it has achieved over the last 12 months and sets out the following key priorities for the coming year.
View the full plan now in the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
In encouraging signs for the industry, the number of contracts increased by a third after reaching a four‐year low in December and the value of contracts rose to its highest level since September.
The Government has released its Levelling Up White Paper setting out how it intends to give everyone the chance to flourish by ‘ending the geographical inequality… of the UK’ and ‘improving economic dynamism and innovation to drive growth across the whole country’.
The full report is available for members in the Build UK section of the members area.
This week we are celebrating the wonderful apprenticeship training facilities, apprentice employers and apprentices our industry has to offer.
The Learning and Work Institute have released four FREE guides for training providers, employers and line managers to help support apprentices’ on-programme experience:
Apprentice support: A guide for apprentices on the support they can expect during their programme and where they can access help.
Choosing the right apprenticeship: A guide for employers and training providers to ensure apprentices are on the right programme for them.
Line manager guide: Hints and tips for line managers on providing support to apprentices throughout their programme.
Being apprentice ready: A checklist to help training providers to review, develop and promote the support they offer to apprentices.
Businesses may only sell CE marked products within Great Britain until the end of this year. From 1 January 2023, products will be required to carry the UKCA mark if they are to be sold in England, Scotland and Wales.
A simple guide to product marking has been produced by Build UK, and this is now available in the CFA members area.
With face coverings no longer mandatory in any setting in England, Build UK has updated the CLC Use of Face Coverings in Construction to reflect the latest Government position.
The updated guidance can be found in the coronavirus section of the CFA members area.
An update on the changes to Covid-19 regulations across the UK and access to an Employer Toolkit for dealing with Covid-19 has now been uploaded to the CFA members area (Coronavirus section).
All COVID‐19 ‘Plan B’ restrictions in England have now been lifted. This means that face coverings are no longer mandatory in any setting, although people are still advised to wear them in crowded and enclosed spaces where they come into contact with others they do not normally meet.
A full COVID-19 update and the latest Build UK flowchart has been uploaded to the Covid-19 section of the CFA members area.
The latest CPA Construction Industry Forecasts have now been released and are in the CPA section of the CFA members area for members to view and download.
National Apprenticeship Week 2022 will run from Monday 7 ‐ Sunday 13 February to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
More information can now be found in the CFA members area.
New information on immigration guidance, including Build UK's 'employing a foreign worker' flowchart, has now been uploaded to the Build UK section of the CFA members area.
As you may be previously aware the government passed new emergency legislation to ensure businesses have the flexibility they need to respond to the coronavirus pandemic and to protect workers from losing their statutory holiday entitlement (The Working Time (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2020, laid before Parliament on 27 March 2020).
These regulations enabled workers to carry holiday forward where the impact of coronavirus means that it has not been reasonably practicable to take it in the leave year to which it relates.
Where it has not been reasonably practicable for the worker to take some or all of the 4 weeks’ holiday due to the effects of coronavirus, the untaken amount may be carried forward into “the following 2 years”.
For clarification “the following 2 years” is the period from the start of the holiday year 2020 up until the end of the second holiday year. For example if the holiday year runs from Jan – Dec , the 2 year window will be from Jan 2020 until December 2022.
If the holiday year runs from April – March, the 2 year window will be from April 2020 until March 2023.
What is reasonably practicable?
When considering whether it was not reasonably practicable for a worker to take leave as a result of the coronavirus, so that they may carry untaken holiday into future leave years, an employer should consider various factors, such as:
·whether the business has faced a significant increase in demand due to coronavirus that would reasonably require the worker to continue to be at work and cannot be met through alternative practical measures
·the extent to which the business’ workforce is disrupted by the coronavirus and the practical options available to the business to provide temporary cover of essential activities
·the health of the worker and how soon they need to take a period of rest and relaxation
·the length of time remaining in the worker’s leave year, to enable the worker to take holiday at a later date within the leave year
·the extent to which the worker taking leave would impact on wider society’s response to, and recovery from, the coronavirus situation
·the ability of the remainder of the available workforce to provide cover for the worker going on leave
Employers should do everything reasonably practicable to ensure that the worker is able to take as much of their leave as possible in the year to which it relates, and where leave is carried forward, it is best practice to give workers the opportunity to take holiday at the earliest practicable opportunity.
Preparing for the Code for Construction Product Information
The Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) has been established as a voluntary code of practice in response to the recommendations in Dame Judith Hackitt’s reports after the Grenfell fire.
CCPI provides validation for manufacturers to show and ensure the product information they provide is clear, accurate and unambiguous.
CPI Ltd who now operate the scheme, are hosting a free webinar with the opportunity to ask questions, informing construction product manufacturers about what they need to prepare for.
The CFA encourages all Manufacturer members to attend.
Build UK have realised the latest information and updates on Covid-19. This information is now available in the CFA members area.
The latest versions of Site Operating Procedures (version 9) and the COVID-19 flowchart have also been uploaded to the Coronavirus section of the CFA members area.
From 11 January in England people who receive a positive lateral flow test will be required to self-isolate immediately but won’t need to take a confirmatory PCR test.
For further information on the rules of Coronavirus testing and what to do when you receive a positive result, please log in to the members area.
The latest UK Construction updated from CPA is now available in the CPA section of the CFA Members Area.
The update covers many pressing topics including the Halifax UK House Price Index. Halifax reported that UK house prices rose for the sixth consecutive month in December. To find out more on this subject and keep up to date on CPA Construction industry news, log in here.
Businesses across the industry are being encouraged to register as ‘Business Champions’ as part of the CLC’s CO2nstruct Zero programme to drive carbon out of the sector.
The next deadline to sign up is Friday 14 January.
Log into the CFA members Area or contact us for more information.
The Prime Minister has confirmed that the current COVID‐19 restrictions will remain in place to give us the ‘chance to ride out this Omicron wave without shutting down our country again’.
To read more please log in to the CFA members area.
Scotland ‐ Individuals should work from home where possible; people must wear a face covering on public transport and in most indoor places, including hospitality and whilst working in other people’s homes; and everyone is being encouraged to take a lateral flow test before mixing with people from other households.
Wales ‐ Individuals should work from home wherever it is possible; and people must wear a face covering on public transport and in most indoor places, except hospitality.
Northern Ireland ‐ Individuals should work from home where possible and employers that require staff to come into the workplace must complete a mandatory risk assessment; and people must wear a face covering on public transport and in most indoor places, including hospitality.
For more information on restrictions across the UK, please log in to the CFA Members Area.
On behalf of the CLC, Build UK has updated the guidance on The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus. In line with the updated Government guidance.
The Prime Minister addressed the nation on Sunday evening to urge everyone to ‘get boosted now’ in response to the ‘tidal wave of Omicron coming’, as the COVID Alert level was raised to 4, the second highest level, for the first time since May.
The Government’s Working Safely guidance is clear that anyone who cannot work from home should continue to go into work, and construction and manufacturing sites should continue to operate. Maintaining a safe workplace remains a priority and members should continue to focus on ensuring appropriate and sufficient supervision and minimising the risk of transmission of COVID‐19.
As employers continue to get to grips with the Points‐Based Immigration System following its introduction a year ago, Build UK has published a flowchart providing an overview of the process.
The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has published the Holiday Entitlement 2022 with guidance on annual and public/bank holidays that apply under the CIJC Working Rule Agreement.
The Prime Minister called a press conference Wednesday night to announce that England is moving to Plan B following the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. Describing the move as ‘proportionate and responsible’ which would ‘buy time to get yet more boosters into more arms’, he confirmed that the following additional restrictions will be introduced over the next week:
From Friday, the legal requirement to wear a face covering will be extended to most public indoor venues, although it will not include hospitality settings
From Monday, the guidance to work from home where it is possible to do so will be reintroduced
Daily tests will be introduced for close contacts, rather than a requirement to self‐isolate, to minimise disruption.
Construction sites are urged to continue to minimise the risk of spreading the virus to keep the workforce safe and sites operational. Build UK are currently reviewing the CLC Site Operating Procedures and guidance on the Use of Face Coverings in Construction, as well as the Build UK COVID‐19 flowchart, and will confirm and publish any updated versions shortly. The current versions of which are all avaliabale in the CFA Members Area.
Talent Retention and Improving the Skills and Labour Shortage
The Guidance section of the Member Area has been updated with support to help find new industry talent and with information about three schemes that are helping to link jobseekers, employers and trainees together to fill positions in construction.
Log in to the Member Area to read more about new talent and improving the skills and labour shortage.
A growing list of Build UK members have registered as ‘Business Champions’ as part of the CLC’s CO2nstruct Zero programme which is bringing the whole supply chain together to drive carbon out of the sector.
To find out more and register please log in to the Build UK section of the CFA Members area.
As part of the Government’s Help to Grow scheme, small businesses will be able to access free online support on the use of digital technology and receive discounts worth up to £5,000 towards the costs of buying approved software.
To find out more and register, log in to the CFA Members Area and head to the Build UK section.
The Government has now passed the Environment Act, designed to protect and enhance our environment by improving air and water quality, restoring natural habitats, increasing biodiversity and reducing waste.
The full article can be read in the Build UK section of the CFA Members area. Log in here.
Build UK has previously highlighted the implications of the new UKCA marking system introduced as a result of Brexit. There are now further worries about the new law to be introduced.
Read the full article in the Build UK section of the members area. Log in here.
Go Construct STEM Ambassadors is the new name for Construction Ambassadors registered with STEM and we are encouraging all Build UK members to support the scheme.
There is more information on this in the Members Area, log in here.
There is new information in the Build UK section of the Member Area regarding CFA signing up to the SME Climate Hub and how CO2nstruct Zero is bringing the construction supply chain together to drive carbon out of the sector
As COP 26 gets underway in Glasgow, we present, with thanks to Jane Thornback, Sustainability Policy Advisor at The Construction Products Association, a brief guide for CFA members to what it's all about and what the flooring industry has to do to be part of improving the sustainability of our sector.
For an overview of the issues and what is happening at COP 26, the Briefing Document here will be informative and helpful. This is just one of a number of documents from the CPA on sustainability which can be found here.
Whilst Glasgow is primarily about world leaders making pledges and national governments upping their ambitions and actions on the path to Net Zero, it is also really important for businesses to make their own commitments. Companies are therefore encouraged to make their own climate pledges. The CPA can signpost these commitments in its CPA Decarbonisation Directory.
However in order to obtain this recognition on the CPA website, you will need to have made a public climate commitment and have an action plan made available on your website. CPA will provide the link to your commitment from their website. CFA are already included in the directory with reference to our ongoing work on sustainability.
To find out more about where to start, the UN Race to Zero and the SME Climate Hub provide a means of making a public commitment to combat climate change. The SME Climate Hub is designed to support businesses such as CFA Contractor members, providing practical ways in which you can reduce your carbon footprint and display both your commitment and actions to your customers.
CPA is also promoting a short animation video which explores what sustainability means to our industry. This is very much an introductory approach. The video can be found here.
The Build UK section of the Member Area contains important information of the Stronger Together initiative and the new SOS hand signal for modern slavery.
There is new information in the Build UK section of the Members Area on CBI's new report into construction, New Foundations, which highlights two strategic priorities for a sustainable future for UK construction.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol appeared on BBC News this week in response to rising energy prices which are impacting the whole construction supply chain. Read more about what members of the Build UK Board have been up to in the Build UK section of the CFA Members Area.
The latest information from Builders’ Conference and what this means for Construction Activity is now avaliable in the Build UK Section of the Member's Area.
CLC Online Workshop: Placing Displaced Talent in Construction
The Construction Leadership Council is arranging an online workshop (12 October 2021, 3.30-4.30pm) with an initial focus on highly skilled civil engineers and project managers who have had to leave conflicts in countries including Syria Lebanon and Afghanistan.
Find out more about this workshop, and register in the CPA Section of our members area.
The deadline for becoming a Business Champion for CO2nstructZero is today, 12 October. Find out more about becoming a Business Champion today in the CPA Section of our members area.
The DVLA is focussing spot checks in October on vans used in construction. In order to help drivers implement best practice, log in to the members area to view the Van Driver Toolkit.
A new international standard on mental health, ISO 45003, has been published to provide guidance on managing the psychological health of the workforce as part of an occupational H&S management system. It is available free of charge to SMEs and other organisations can purchase it from BSI.
The Government has announced a package of measures to tackle the shortage of HGV drivers, which is causing widespread disruption across supply chains.
Build UK continues to work with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) to publish up‐to‐date information on the availability of key construction materials.
Members can read the full article in the Build UK section of the members area.
Following the recent cabinet reshuffle, the Prime Minister has appointed three new ministers to BEIS:
Greg Hands, Minister for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change, with responsibility for carbon budgets, energy markets and green finance;
George Freeman, Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, with responsibility for life sciences, R&D, the Innovation Strategy, technology strategy and security, and
Lee Rowley, Minister for Industry, with responsibility for levelling up, BEIS sectors and relations with the Devolved Administrations.
There has recently been widespread media coverage of wholesale gas prices, and the effect this could have on household energy bills. The impact on certain areas of industry, and its ability to continue production, has also attracted attention. The new Energy Minister Greg Hands explains the situation in this video.
Lee Rowley, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, has been appointed to succeed Anne-Marie Trevelyan as construction minister. Rowley is expected to work with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and join the regular industry calls.
First elected to office in June 2017, Rowley has been confirmed as the next MP to take the construction brief in the department for business, energy, and industrial strategy (BEIS).
Greg Hands, Trevelyan’s successor as minister of state at BEIS, was initially expected to take over the construction brief but it has gone to Rowley who holds a more junior position. Rowley’s role withing BEIS is unpaid and he is also one of six Junior Lords of the Treasury.
Since 2001, there have been 20 MPs as the role of construction minister. Steve Bratt, Electrical Contractors’ Association chief executive, welcomed the appointment, but said “As we look to build back safer, greener, and better, we hope these continual changes don’t undermine the government’s understanding of our industry, and what we have to offer.
“The country has been relying on construction to lead post-pandemic economic recovery and, going forward, we need informed dialogue and reliable, sustainable policies.
Build UK has issued useful information on the new Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) which includes many beneficial links for CFA members.
A new Code for Construction Product Information has been published to ensure reliable and consistent product information. Members can find more information and links to the code, information pack, and code guidance in the members area.
The CFA is welcoming the launch of the new Talentview Construction website today!
This is where “talented people find their first job”. It brings together all the necessary information for people looking to join our industry – whether they are looking for apprenticeships, traineeships or graduate roles.
Aiming to assist both individuals and employers, Talentview Construction is an exciting initiative which we hope will combat skills shortages within our sector, while encouraging people with expertise, skills and enthusiasm to join the industry.
It is a broad industry initiative backed by the Construction Talent Retention Scheme, CLC, CITB, BEIS and a wide range of employers, colleges and industry bodies. The service is completely free to use, for both employers and individuals. Employers can post any vacancies they have, while prospective employees can upload a profile which can be viewed by companies looking for staff.
At a time when the employment market across construction, including the contract flooring sector, is experiencing a number of challenges, we believe Talentview Construction is a very worthwhile initiative which the CFA supports enthusiastically.
The latest information from Builders’ Conference shows that there were 454 contracts worth £4.7 billion awarded in August. Whilst this was lower than the previous month as the industry had its traditional and well‐deserved summer break, both the number and value of contracts awarded this August were higher than August 2020, indicating that construction’s recovery is holding steady. 41% of all the contracts awarded by value were housing (£1.9 billion), 16% were office projects (£754 million) and 9% were education projects (£407 million).
The number of tender opportunities was 22% down on July and remained 40% below the monthly average for the past year.
CITB has published the results of this year’s Consensus process, which confirm that 66% of employers by number and 63% by Levy paid supported the Levy Proposals for 2022‐25.
Construction Products Association (CPA) developed a proposed Code for Construction Product Information. More information on this can be found in the members area.
Build UK and CSCS have published guidance on‘How to be a Smart Site’ this infomation is avalibale for CFA members in the Build UK section of the CFA Members Area
Zero Emission Road Freight Trials – funding winners
These government funded trials are looking at a range of technologies to support a shift to zero emission transport in HGVs. Projects include battery electric trucks, hydrogen refuelling stations and light weighting of trucks. Find the list of projects here
BEIS Services & Investment Questionnaire on the UK-EU TCA
The Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is conducting ongoing monitoring work to understand the impacts on UK services of our new relationship with the EU under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.
CFA members should complete a questionnaire to voice their opinions, the questionnaire can be found in the CPA section of the members area.
The Government has launched a new flexi‐job apprenticeship offer designed to enable apprentices to move between businesses as they complete their apprenticeship.
As a CITB Prescribed Organisation, Build UK has undertaken extensive consultation with members to understand their position on the services and support provided by CITB in return for paying the CITB Levy.
CFA Members can now find Build UK's formal response to the CITB Levy in the CFA Members Area.
CITB has announced the appointment of Tim Balcon as its new Chief Executive from 1 September, replacing Sarah Beale who leaves at the end of September. Having begun his career as an apprentice service engineer, Tim has led a number of professional and membership bodies, including the Energy and Utility Sector Skills Council (EU Skills), and served on the board of Ofqual. At this critical time for the industry skills system, Build UK is looking forward to working with Tim and has invited him to present to Build UK members (CFA Members are eligiable) once he is in post.
There is a growing list of major Contractors and Clients specifying the Common Assessment Standard for their PQ requirements, and members of the supply chain can obtain certification from any one of three Recognised Assessment Bodies ‐ Achilles, CHAS or Constructionline ‐ in order to tender for work with them.
For more information CFA Members should cotact the CFA Office at either info@cfa.org.uk or by calling 0115 941 1126.
There will be an additional bank holiday next year to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) Working Rule Agreement formally recognises eight bank holidays each year, and the CIJC is proposing that this is increased to nine next year, as was the case in 2011 and 2012 for other royal milestones. It is proposed that double pay for working the additional day would not apply but time off in lieu would be granted.
The CIJC has launched a new website making it easier to access the Working Rule Agreement and guidance on terms and conditions of employment, including minimum pay rates as well as holiday dates, for those working in the industry.
The HSE is consulting on changes to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, which would mean employers are required to provide PPE free of charge to all workers, rather than just employees.
Build UK has developed a draft response to the consultation and CFA Members can submit comments by tomorrow (Friday 6 August).
A new report by CITB on mental health in construction is calling for a joined‐up approach to improve the wellbeing of construction workers. Whilst there are a growing number of initiatives to support mental health in the industry, they often lack impact because they exist in isolation and there is no consistent message. With industry culture perpetuating poor mental wellbeing, the report cites the flexible working project undertaken by Build UK and Timewise as a way of making construction a safer and healthier place to work. CITB will be working with the CLC to develop an industry‐wide plan on mental health which tackles the key issues.
The latest results published under the Duty to Report on Payment Practices and Performance show that the payment performance of Build UK members has improved again over the last six months, despite the ongoing challenges presented by COVID‐19 and Brexit. Contractor members are now reporting an average of 34 days to pay invoices, down from 35 days six months ago and 45 days when the Build UK table was first published in July 2018. On average, they now pay 94% of invoices within 60 days, up from 82% three years ago, and 79% of their invoices are paid within terms, compared to 61% in 2018.
Build UK’s table features more than 100 of the industry’s largest companies to provide a comprehensive picture of payment practices in construction. This increased transparency has resulted in significant changes in behaviour over the last three years, and a third of Build UK Contractor members now pay in an average of 30 days or less, with two thirds paying in 35 days or less.
The Written Ministerial Statement permitting extended construction site working hours will remain in place until 30 September 2021 despite restrictions being lifted. Local authorities in England are currently expected to approve requests unless there are very compelling reasons against.
Transport for London has updated its travel guidance for businesses following the lifting of restrictions, and workers are encouraged to travel during quieter times and cycle or walk to work where possible. It remains mandatory to wear a face covering on the London transport network unless exempt.
The CLC Product Availability Group has issued its latest statement on the availability of construction products, which confirms that in addition to price inflation ‘stability and accuracy of supply remains the overarching concern’. The products that are most affected include roofing products, timber, insulation and bagged cement.
For more infomation please contact info@cfa.org.uk
The HSE is consulting on changes to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations, which would mean employers are required to provide PPE free of charge to all workers, rather than just employees. Build UK will be responding to the consultation. Please send us your views by Friday 6 August at info@cfa.org.uk
The Building Safety Bill includes amendments to the Defective Premises Act (DPA) which will have significant implications for anyone carrying out work in connection with the provision of a dwelling.
The current legislation enables anyone who subsequently has a legal or equitable interest in a property to bring a claim for defective work, where the work renders the dwelling uninhabitable within six years of the building being constructed. This time limit is set to be amended to 15 years and will also cover refurbishment and remediation work and will be applied retrospectively to buildings that have already been completed. Liability under the DPA is strict: it is not possible to argue, as a defence, that it was reasonable to believe that the work was adequate nor is it possible to contract out of the DPA by agreement.
All the latest building safety news, including an update on the remediation of unsafe cladding, can be found in Build UK’s Grenfell update.
For more inforamtion please contact info@cfa.org.uk
The Consensus process enables employers that pay the CITB Levy to have a say on its future. Following publication of Build UK’s ‘Levy In ‐ Skills Out’ proposal, members confirmed they support the principle of paying a Levy but have concerns over how it is currently being used. CITB has now set out its response to our proposal, suggesting that much of what members are asking for is being delivered.
However, Build UK’s CITB Reform Steering Group feels that the £210 million raised by the Levy could be used more effectively to deliver better outcomes, including recognised standards for all construction occupations, a nationwide delivery system for training and qualifications, and an effective apprenticeship system.
CFA members are requested to submit their views on the continuation of the Levy via Build UK’s Consensus Survey by next Friday 30 July.
Launch Event: Routemap for Zero Avoidable Waste in Construction
A webinar to launch the Routemap for Zero Avoidable Waste in Construction will take place on Thursday 22 July from 11:00 – 12:30.
The Routemap has been prepared by the Green Construction Board (GCB), in collaboration with Defra and BEIS. The Routemap aims to catalyse actions by all parts of the supply chain to reduce and ultimately eliminate all avoidable waste.
In the webinar, the chair of the Green Construction Board will give an introduction and welcome, and colleagues from Defra, BEIS and GCB will outline the context of the Routemap, and give an overview of the content and structure.
There will be a Q&A session at the end of the session. There is no need for registration– please just follow the link below at 11:00am on 22 July.
Call for Manufacture Members to contribute to BSI Identify
The CPA is collaborating with the British Standards Institution (BSI) on a new initiative to help solve the problem of product traceability in the supply chain. BSI would like to consult with CFA Manufacture members to ensure this new service is designed in a way that will best meet your needs.
We would like to offer you the opportunity to be part of this important research and to have some input into the design of this new concept. If you are a key decision-maker in relation to sales/marketing or technical issues in your organisation, BSI are keen to speak to you.
The research is being conducted by BSI’s Research & Intelligence team and participation will take the form of a 45-60 minute discussion conducted as a Teams/Zoom call. If you are prepared to help with this important project that will have significant implications for the Construction Products sector, please email andrew.firman@bsigroup.com or call him on 07802 949631 to ensure your views are included.
CPA Webinar: Economic and Construction Industry Forecasts Summer 2021
The CPA is hosting a webinar on its upcoming Construction Industry Forecasts - Summer 2021 Edition. The webinar will be covering the UK economy this year and next, the latest construction data and our main construction scenario for this year and next, focusing on how things have changed since the Spring Forecasts. This webinar is for CPA members only, and therefore all CFA members are welcome. The webinar will take place on Wednesday 28 July at 11am. Please register here.
The CLC has issued a statement confirming that the Site Operating Procedures will remain available as a reference document from Monday 19 July.
Whilst they will no longer reflect the latest Government guidance, businesses across the supply chain have welcomed the consistency that the Site Operating Procedures have provided and they may wish to maintain elements of social distancing for the time being. The CLC also recommends that the good practices the industry has adopted over the last 18 months are retained.
On a call earlier this week, almost 90% of Build UK Contractor members indicated that they will be maintaining social distancing measures on some or all of their sites until at least 16 August, when the requirement for close contacts to self‐isolate will be revised for those who have had both doses of the vaccine or are under 18.
The Prime Minister has confirmed that the move to Step 4 of the COVID‐19 Roadmap will go ahead next Monday 19 July. The majority of restrictions including social distancing will end and people will no longer be required to work from home; however, the Government is emphasising that the pandemic is not over and people should exercise caution and take personal responsibility.
It is expected and recommended that face coverings are worn in crowded and enclosed spaces when mixing with people you don’t normally meet, and the Mayor of London has confirmed that they will remain mandatory on the London transport network. Guidance will be published for businesses on managing the return to the workplace and the current position will be reviewed in September.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that Scotland will move to Level 0 on 19 July but certain mitigations will remain in place, including the mandatory wearing of face coverings and working from home where possible. Wales will move fully to alert level one from 17 July and to a new alert level zero on 7 August and Northern Ireland is expected to outline its plans for easing restrictions shortly.
‘Help to Grow: Management’ is a new programme which delivers support, training and mentoring to SMEs across the country. Designed to be manageable alongside full‐time work, the 12‐week programme covers financial management, adoption of digital technology and a range of other areas, and members can register their interest.
As the industry faces increasing materials and skills shortages, the CLC has published an open letter urging the supply chain to adopt a collaborative approach and use fluctuations provisions within contracts. Build UK’s guidance, Your Contracts Post‐Brexit, covers fluctuations provisions for JCT and NEC contracts.
Following the introduction of the Points‐Based Immigration System, foreign workers must generally have a visa sponsored by an employer in order to work in the UK. Getting a sponsor licence can be a complex process and Build UK has summarised the key steps for businesses in its How to Get a Sponsor Licence guide.
Masks in shops, offices, premises and public transport will be voluntary.
Working from home to end unless set by Employers.
Employees can request to work from home under 'Flexible Working'. An
employer can refuse this request, however, if an employee has been working from home during the pandemic, this request would have to be given serious consideration.
School bubbles to be abolished
From the 16 August 2021:
Doubled vaccinated people will no longer legally have to self-isolate if they are identified as a close contact of a positive covid 19 case. However, where a person has been in close contact with a positive case they are still advised to take a PCR test at a designated test centre to detect the virus and the variant.
With regard to existing advisory signage, hand sanitiser stations, wiping down touch points, you may wish to keep these measures in place due to current cases rising.
Also, where offices, premises initially spread workstations out, again we would recommend if you have the capacity/space to keep these measures in place.
The CPA is collaborating with the British Standards Institution (BSI) on a new initiative to help solve the problem of product traceability in the supply chain. BSI would like to consult with CPA members to ensure this new service is designed in a way that will best meet your needs.
CPA would like to offer you the opportunity to be part of this important research and to have some input into the design of this new concept. If you are a key decision-maker in relation to sales/marketing or technical issues in your organisation, BSI are keen to speak to you.
The research is being conducted by BSI’s Research & Intelligence team and participation will take the form of a 45-60 minute discussion conducted as a Teams/Zoom call. If you are prepared to help with this important project that will have significant implications for the Construction Products sector, please email andrew.firman@bsigroup.com or call him on 07802 949631 to ensure your views are included.
The latest information from Builders’ Conference shows that there were 516 contracts worth £7.2 billion awarded in June. Whilst the number was slightly lower than the previous month, it was still 3% higher than the monthly average over the past year and 24% higher than June 2020, indicating that construction has recovered more quickly from the most recent lockdown. 26% of all the contracts awarded by value were housing (£1.9 billion) and 13% were rail projects (£925 million).
The number of tender opportunities was consistent with the previous month but remains 29% below the monthly average for the past year.
The deadline for Build UK members that pay the CITB Levy to respond to Build UK's Consensus Survey with views on the Levy proposals for 2022‐25 is Friday 30 July.
We are liaising with all members’ nominated Levy contacts and this is your opportunity to have a say on the continuation of the Levy.
With skills shortages putting the industry under increasing pressure, Build UK may have the opportunity to suggest additions to the eligible occupations list for the Skilled Worker Visa provided there is sufficient evidence. Members are invited to send Build UK details of affected occupations, including their ONS codes, with supporting evidence showing why they should be included on the list by Friday 16 July.
The CLC has issued a statement supporting an immediate update to the Shortage Occupations List. As well as backing the call from the Road Haulage Association (RHA) to include HGV drivers, the CLC has highlighted the need for the Points‐Based Immigration System to accommodate specialist construction workers such as piling rig operators to prevent delays to major infrastructure projects.
The EU has formally recognised UK data protection standards following the adoption of data adequacy decisions, which will allow UK businesses to continue to receive personal data from the EU without having to make additional arrangements. Further information can be found in the updated CLC GDPR guidance.
The Government has published the Building Safety Bill, which outlines the most significant changes to building safety regulation in a generation.
These include the creation of the Building Safety Regulator to oversee the safety and performance of all buildings, with powers to introduce more stringent rules for high‐rise residential buildings, hospitals and care homes of at least 18 metres (seven storeys). New ‘Gateways’ at each stage of a building’s design and construction will be introduced, along with the requirement to create, hold and maintain a ‘golden thread’ of information, and there is a new series of factsheets outlining the implications for dutyholders. The Bill will also extend the time for residents to seek compensation for sub‐standard construction work from six to 15 years and introduce new Government powers to regulate construction products.
At a meeting of Build UK members prior to the Bill being published, Dame Judith Hackitt was clear that “the industry should be acting responsibly ahead of the new Building Safety Regulator being set up” and she urged “everyone in the supply chain to step up the pace of change to deliver the required level of safety, as the old ways of operating will no longer be acceptable”. The new regime and accompanying responsiblites are expected to come into force within 12 to 18 months of the Bill receiving Royal Assent.
Following publication of the Government’s Social Distancing Review, the Prime Minister has confirmed that England will move to Step 4 of the COVID‐19 Roadmap on Monday 19 July, subject to a final review of the data next week. This means the remaining legal restrictions will be lifted, including the end of social distancing and ‘one metre plus’, no limits on gatherings, and the removal of the guidance to work from home. Face coverings will no longer be legally required, although guidance will be in place to suggest where people may choose to wear one, such as enclosed and crowded places where they come into contact with others they don’t usually meet.
The Health Secretary has also announced that from 16 August close contacts of people in England who have tested positive for COVID‐19 will not have to self‐isolate if they have had both doses of the vaccine or are under 18. They will be advised to get a PCR test and if it is positive then they will still need to self‐isolate for 10 days.
The Construction Leadership Council welcomes the introduction of the Building Safety Bill to Parliament yesterday by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
In the coming months, through the Building Safety Workstream, the CLC will be actively engaging with industry to promote awareness and understanding of the new regulatory regime, industry-led initiatives and core principles. The whole supply chain must engage now and play their part to improve.
Following presentations from the Home Office, slides and an employer pack have been made available in the CFA members area, for members to view and download.
The slides include a general overview of the settlement scheme.
The Common Assessment Standard is reviewed every year to ensure that it continues to meet the pre‐qualification requirements of the industry, and members can have their say now on any changes required for version 3 which will be published on 1 January 2022. The dedicated Common Assessment Standard Review Group, comprised of representatives from across Build UK members and the wider industry, will be meeting later this month, and any suggested changes should be submitted via the online form by tomorrow (Friday 2 July).
From today (1 July), employers will only be able to claim 70% of a furloughed employee’s wages under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and will have to contribute the remaining 10% to ensure employees continue to receive at least 80% of their wages, up to a maximum of £2,500.
Following the introduction of the Points‐Based Immigration System, foreign workers (with the exception of ‘settled workers’) now require a visa sponsored by an employer in order to work in the UK. Businesses wishing to employ workers that require a visa must have a sponsor licence, in order to provide each worker with a unique certificate of sponsorship which enables them to apply for the visa. Getting a sponsor licence can be a complex process and Build UK has summarised the key steps in a new guide, How to Get a Sponsor Licence, to help members understand what is involved.
Build UK has also updated its flowchart which provides an overview of the process of employing a foreign worker, following the closure of the EU Settlement Scheme.
Global demand for construction coupled with a limited supply of raw materials is putting increasing pressure on projects across the UK. With the continued impact of COVID‐19 and a range of Brexit‐related issues, the supply chain is facing significant challenges, particularly with imported products and materials. Build UK continues to work with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) to publish up‐to‐date information on the availability of key construction materials. Timber is currently the only product RAG‐rated ‘red’, with lead times of between four and six weeks, and there are nine ‘amber’ rated products including cladding, paint, and steel.
With the latest statement from the CLC Product Availability Group confirming that ‘demand shows few signs of slowing’, Build UK has updated its contractual guidance to help members manage the impact of this and other Brexit‐related issues within their contracts. Produced by Wedlake Bell LLP, Your Contracts Post‐Brexit deals with the changes arising from the introduction of the EU‐UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement and provides comprehensive advice on dealing with a wide range of issues, including delays to time and programme, price and currency fluctuations, and sourcing materials and legal ownership.
From today (1 July), signatories to the Prompt Payment Code are required to pay 95% of invoices from businesses with fewer than 50 employees within 30 days. Compliance with the new requirement will be enforced from a signatory’s next full reporting period, which for members with a financial year ending 31 December will be January 2022. We have published further information following a meeting with the Small Business Commissioner earlier this year, which answers a range of queries raised by members.
Build UK will be updating its payment performance table later this month in line with the latest results published under the Duty to Report on Payment Practices and Performance.
Small businesses and Net Zero – Together for our Planet
The Together for Our Planet ‘Business Climate Leaders’ campaign encourages small and micro businesses to commit to cutting their emissions in half by 2030 and to net zero by 2050 or sooner through the new UK Business Climate Hub.
Small businesses can use the hub to find practical tools, resources and advice to understand their emissions and develop a plan to tackle them, as well as providing ideas for steps they can take. You can help support the campaign by sharing information from the stakeholder toolkit with the SMEs you work with.
The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy together with Innovate UK invites CPA members to apply for the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF) Phase 1: Spring 2021 competition window until Wednesday 14 July 2021.The competition will provide £40 million grant funding towards the costs of:
Deployment of mature energy efficiency technologies that improve industrial process energy efficiency and reduce energy demand.
Feasibility and engineering studies for projects deploying mature energy efficiency technologies or deep decarbonisation technologies.
BEIS and Innovate UK are hosting a final stakeholder clinic before the deadline to help and support businesses interested in applying for IETF funding; click here for details. In addition, a Technology Marketplace has been created to help applicants with pre-screened videos showing technologies eligible for the IETF competition and offering manufacturers ideas and contacts for technologies that could be deployed on their industrial sites.
The CPA and the Builders Merchants Federation co-chair the Construction Leadership Council’s Product Availability Group. The PAG this week published an update to its regular statements on the status of product shortages in the market. That update can be found on the CLC website here.
This webinar will provide an update to CPA members and non-members alike on the outstanding issues of concern following the UK-EU trade and cooperation agreement particularly around CA marking, new border controls and logistics for construction product manufacturers, as well as the impact of all this on product availability.
The webinar will be hosted by CPA Chief Executive, Peter Caplehorn with input from CPA Senior Technical Manager, Duncan King. There will be an opportunity for Q&A towards the end of the webinar. Join this CPA webinar on Tuesday 6 July 2021 at 3 pm to find out. This webinar is open to both CPA members and non-members alike.
Following the extension of lockdown restrictions, the Government has confirmed that businesses that registered for workplace testing by 12 April can continue to order free LFD tests until Monday 19 July. Build UK has updated its guide on how to set up and run a workplace test site.
Over 100 members attended the launch of the New Hospital Programme (NHP) hosted by Build UK earlier this week. Part of the Government’s multi‐billion pound Health Infrastructure Plan, the NHP will develop 48 hospitals by 2030.
Commercial Director of the NHP, Emma‐Jane Houghton, outlined how extensive and early engagement with the full supply chain would support delivery of the ‘biggest hospital programme in a generation’ in line with the principles of the Construction Playbook and the Government’s 2050 net zero target.
Following the delay in the easing of lockdown restrictions, the Government has confirmed that temporary changes to right to work checks will now end on 31 August 2021. After this date, employers must revert to face‐to‐face checks, in place of video calls, and scanned copies will no longer be accepted instead of original documents.
There has been no change to the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme and applications must be submitted by next Wednesday 30 June. There is a pack for employers containing a range of resources that can be shared with employees from the EU or EEA who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 to help them apply.
The Home Office is hosting a free industry webinar on the Points‐Based Immigration System next Monday 28 June from 11:00am ‐ 12:00pm which is open to all Build UK members. Build UK has also published an easy‐to‐follow flowchart on employing foreign workers which may be useful.
We are almost halfway through 2021 and the challenges of ensuring the industry has enough people are coming to a head. With the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme at the end of this month, the construction sector is caught between increased demand for infrastructure, housing and RMI and the new Points‐Based Immigration System which is difficult to navigate and preventing people with the skills we need from entering the country.
Build UK continues to raise this issue which could delay projects at the same time the industry is being asked to drive the economic recovery. Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng and Construction Minister Anne‐Marie Trevelyan have both acknowledged our calls for assistance, and the impact on the industry has been highlighted by Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol in the Financial Times and on Politics Live over the last week.
With the difficulties in employing foreign workers, there couldn’t be a better time for Build UK to publish the results of their flexible working project with Timewise which can help to attract and retain a diverse workforce, and we would encourage all our members to have a look and see what is possible within their businesses.
CITB’s Consensus process began this week and Build UK members that pay the CITB Levy should have received Build UK's Consensus Survey, asking for their views on the Levy proposals for 2022‐2025. The deadline for responses is Friday 30 July and members are urged to have their say on the continuation of the CITB Levy.
Build UK will be liaising with members’ nominated Levy contacts throughout the Consensus period, and the outcome is expected to be communicated by CITB to the industry by October 2021.
The CLC has launched a dedicated CO2nstruct Zero website, providing a single hub of information on the industry‐wide programme to drive carbon out of the sector. Build UK members across the supply chain can sign up as Business Champions and demonstrate the steps they are taking to respond to the net zero challenge.
Find an apprenticeship is the official Government website for apprenticeship opportunities in England and is used by thousands of registered candidates, including those that have been affected by redundancy.
The change will help increase interest in employers' opportunities by making it easier for apprentices to search and apply. In addition, received applications are easy to manage and in one place, with the ability to direct candidates to recruitment sites if needed.
Recruiting apprentices who have been made redundant
To advertise an opportunity, employers need to create an apprenticeship service account, or sign in if they already have one, and select ‘Your apprenticeship adverts’ under the ‘Apprenticeships’ section. Gov UK's support video guides employers through the recruitment process step-by-step.
Additional support for apprentices
If you know of any apprentices affected by redundancy please direct them to Gov UK's dedicated helpline, 0800 015 0400 (freephone), available 8 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week, or visit Gov UK's online support pages.
How to Manage Travel-related Quarantine in Your Business
As we move more into summer, and your employees might be thinking of booking holidays – or even already be on holiday – it’s essential that you’re confident in how to manage any travel-related quarantine your employees might have to undertake.
The experts of Associate Member, Citation, have put together a free guide with the key considerations you need to make when an employee has to quarantine, from what pay they’re entitled to, to what to do if travel is a part of their job. Download your free guide.
If you’d like to chat about how Citation can help with the HR and Health & Safety side of your business, just give them a call on 0345 844 1111, or fill in their call-back form and they'll get right back to you. Quote ‘Construction Products Association’ when enquiring to access your member benefit.
Construction output and jobs on the rise – new forecast
The construction sector will bounce back from the pandemic quickly, with output reaching pre-Covid levels by 2022, according to CITB’s latest Construction Skills Network (CSN) forecast.
The report, which predicts skills needs up to 2025, shows a much more positive outlook than previously thought, with output growing by 4.4% each year on average across the UK. This is mainly due to strong growth in private housing and infrastructure, with 217,000 new workers needed to keep pace with demand. The jobs where most people will be needed include wood trades and interior fit-out, construction managers and other construction professionals.
The report has breakdowns for the predicted annual growth for each nation and region of the UK by sector, and individual trades and professions.
To read the full report, or data for your nation or region, click here.
Companies that deferred VAT payments between 20 March and 30 June 2020 and still have payments to make will need to join the Government's VAT deferral new payment scheme by 21 June or pay in full by 30 June, otherwise they may be charged a 5% penalty or interest.
The deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme is fast approaching, and members should ensure that all their employees from the EU or EEA who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 have applied by Wednesday 30 June.
There is a pack for employers containing a range of useful resources you can share with employees to help them submit an application, and they will receive settled or pre‐settled status depending on how long they have been in the UK. Any workers who do not apply in time may find themselves unable to continue living and working in the UK.
Build UK has published an easy‐to‐follow flowchart on employing foreign workers, which covers the Points‐Based Immigration System and Skilled Worker Visa, as well as the EU Settlement Scheme, with links to further guidance if required.
CITB’s Consensus process will begin next Monday 14 June and Build UK members that pay the CITB Levy will receive our Consensus Survey, either directly or via their Trade Association, asking for a response to the Levy proposals for 2022‐2025 by Friday 30 July.
Members have already confirmed their support for Build UK’s Levy In ‐ Skills Out proposal which sets out their expectations in return for paying the Levy, and we will be working with CITB and the Department for Education (DfE) to ensure that they understand the views of employers during this year’s Consensus.
Build UK will continue to liaise with members’ nominated Levy contacts throughout the Consensus period and the outcome is expected to be communicated by CITB to the industry by October 2021.
The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has completed negotiations with trade unions GMB and Unite the Union and reached agreement on a 2.5% increase in all pay rates, which will take effect from Monday 28 June 2021. Non‐taxable elements of pay, such as travel and subsistence allowances, will also increase, and the guidance on bereavement leave has been updated encouraging employers to now grant up to five days paid leave. The new pay rates and allowances should be read in conjunction with the CIJC Working Rule Agreement and Holiday Entitlement 2021.
CFA lobbies to support its members on Construction Leadership Council
Richard Catt, the CFA’s CEO, continues to attend meetings of the Construction Leadership Council. These meetings are normally attended by the Construction Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, so they can be a great opportunity to lobby hard for members’ interests.
Material shortages are the headline issue currently. The CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation has reported that there is currently no bagged cement available at merchants, despite a 30 – 40% increase in demand.
Timber is also in short supply, as are plastics (PE and PP), while raw material shortages and price escalations are being reported for smoothing compounds and flooring adhesive.
The Construction leadership Council has an updated statement on this issue, which can be found on the CLC website.
Another issue potentially affecting members and the supply of flooring is the short supply of HGV drivers, with the shortfall currently estimated to be between 60,000 and 80,000. One manufacturer who supplies distribution in the construction sector (not flooring), has anecdotally reported that of their 40 drivers, 18 recently left to join a low-cost supermarket chain, such is demand and current market forces.
If there are issues that members would like to raise on these group calls with the minister, please contact Richard directly: (richard@cfa.org.uk). Please provide details of your concern and consider what would help to ease your problem.
As of 6 April, contractors will have to take on self-employed people they use consistently as PAYE staff. Firms that are unprepared will face trouble with HMRC, a tax expert has warned.
The IR35 change was announced in 2018 and large contractors are understood to have done extensive preparation for the new rules, according to Brendan Sharkey, partner at accountancy MHA MacIntyre Hudson. Some smaller firms are yet to get to grips with the new rules though, he warned. “It’s only when they’ve read about it in the press, got their heads around it, and thought, ‘you know, I think we’re sitting
on a problem’,” he said.
Firms that have not adapted to the new rules should start the process now to mitigate any problems with HMRC. “Make an effort to get your act, right,” he said. “If you don't make an effort and think the old ways still work, you're heading for a big showdown with HMRC. If you can actually show that you are sorting it out, you do get some points for that, because that's what they want you to do.”
HMRC has vowed to take a light-touch approach to enforcement for the first 12 months of the new system. The changes were meant to be introduced in April 2020, but just under a month before they were due to go live, a 12 months delay was announced in response to the pandemic.
IR35 was first introduced in 2000 to combat tax avoidance arising from people being paid through a limited company despite working like an employee. The new changes put the onus on medium and large companies to make the determination whether a worker that operates through an intermediary should in fact be treated like an employee and be taken on to the company’s payroll. For small firms, it is up
to the intermediary to confirm their status.
Industry experts have suggested the new rules could lead to more direct
employment, which could help to boost skills with contractors investing more in staff. Critics have argued the new system will slash income and employment for previously self-employed staff.
Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE) director of public policy Andy Chamberlain said the change would add to the "financial carnage" caused by the pandemic. He claimed that clients were taking blanket approaches to the new rules. "Many clients are pushing all their contractors inside IR35 – against the rules of the legislation. Many more are only engaging contractors through umbrella companies, while others are scrapping their contractor workforces altogether – just when, as the economy opens up, they will
need them most."
Chamberlain called on the government to rethink the policy and also carry out a "root and branch" review of self-employed taxation in the UK.
Contractors may be able to keep site workers off payrolls by employing them through contracts on a job-by-job basis. Sharkey said: “If they're a specialist in a certain area, companies need to put it into a situation where they are a preferred supplier and they've got to quote for the work.”
It will be harder to avoid taking professional office-based workers on as employees, however. “It’s the ones who are in the office and basically part of the furniture,” he said. “You’re really going to struggle [not to employ them].
UK sets new additional carbon emissions target of 78% by 2035
The government has accepted the advice of the Climate Change Committee in their 6th carbon budget, and has announced a new target of 78% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035 on the journey to Net Zero by 2050. If achieved, this will enable the UK to meet its requirements under the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2°. Of course the ambitious rhetoric needs now to be backed by stretching actions from government for all parts of the economy including the forthcoming Heat in Buildings Strategy. Find the announcement here. For further information contact Jane Thornback.
The Construction Leadership Council has published the second iteration of the National Retrofit Strategy, a twenty-year blueprint for how the construction industry can work with government to retrofit the UK’s 28 million existing homes. Following open consultation with the construction industry, the strategy now has over 50 supporter organisations, including the CPA, which together wrote an open letter to the government asking for support. The press release is here.
CITB has now published its Levy Proposals for 2022‐2025, which would see Levy rates return to 0.35% for PAYE staff and 1.25% for CIS sub‐contractors for the next three years. A number of temporary measures introduced in the 2021 Levy Order would be maintained, including the increase in the Levy Exemption Threshold to £120,000 and the 50% reduction in Levy rates for employers with wage bills between £120,000 and £400,000. In line with CITB’s Consensus process, Build UK will be formally consulting Levy‐paying members on the proposals from 14 June to 30 July.
All Levy‐registered employers should have received their 2021 Levy Return, and members are reminded to list all the trade bodies they are a member of when completing and returning it by the deadline of Wednesday 30 June.
The latest information from Builders’ Conference shows that there were 551 contracts worth £6.3 billion awarded in May. The number is 13% higher than the monthly average over the past year and it is the fifth time in the last six months that the value has exceeded £6.0 billion, indicating a sustained recovery for construction post COVID‐19. 35% of all the contracts awarded by value were housing (£2.2 billion), with rail projects making up 17% (£1.1. billion) and office projects 8% (£517 million).
The number of tender opportunities was consistent with the previous month but remains 25% below the monthly average for the past year.
Employers in England can now claim the following payments after the Government launched two new incentive schemes:
£3,000 for each new apprentice hired between 1 April and 30 September 2021. Employers will need to set up an apprenticeship service account in order to apply, and this incentive can be claimed in addition to the existing £1,000 payment for hiring an apprentice aged 16 to 18 years old or under 25 with an education, health and care plan or who has been in the care of their local authority.
£1,000 for each T Level student hosted on an industry placement of at least 45 days. There is an Employer Guide for construction containing example placement templates, and employers can claim for up to 20 students until July 2022.
Osborne is the latest Build UK member to adopt the Common Assessment Standard for its pre‐qualification requirements. Osborne joins a growing list of major Contractors and Clients which are specifying the Common Assessment Standard, meaning that members of the supply chain can obtain certification from any one of three Recognised Assessment Bodies ‐ Achilles, CHAS or Constructionline ‐ in order to tender for work with them.
The Common Assessment Standard, which is endorsed by the CLC, has two levels of certification ‐ desktop and site‐based ‐ and companies should apply for the appropriate level dependent upon their trade, size, and the requirements of their clients.
CPA website to signpost Decarbonisation and Sustainability Programmes and Actions
CPA have created a new page of the CPA website to signpost decarbonisation and sustainability activities and plans of CPA members, both companies and trade associations.
Given the climate emergency, COP 26, the UK government’s many Net Zero strategies, and the pledges and commitments of numerous groups cascading through the supply chain, The CPA are increasingly being asked what manufacturers are doing to play their part in reducing carbon emissions and to address the wider sustainability issues.
The CPA website will provide a platform to signpost to the work you are all doing by making a link to the relevant web page on your website. CPA will use your company/trade association logo to make the link and will include one short sentence describing the activity.
The deadline for claiming the fourth grant under the Self‐Employment Income Support Scheme, covering the period 1 February to 30 April 2021, is next Tuesday 1 June. Details of the fifth and final grant covering May to September 2021 will be published in due course.
As part of its CO2nstruct Zero programme to drive carbon out of the construction sector, the CLC is seeking views on how the industry can demonstrate progress towards net zero. The findings will help to create a ‘performance framework’ of targets, and responses can be submitted online until Friday 11 June.
The CLC Product Availability Group has issued its latest statement on the availability of construction products, which confirms that ‘in addition to availability and resulting longer lead times, there is an impact on prices’. The products that are most affected are timber, steel, pitched roofing, plastics, paints/coatings and cement.
The Small Business Commissioner, Philip King, joined a meeting with Build UK members earlier this month to discuss the changes to the Prompt Payment Code, including the new requirement to pay 95% of invoices from businesses with fewer than 50 employees within 30 days from 1 July 2021. Build UK have produced a summary of the key points which answers the range of queries raised by members.
Build UK members can use the Common Assessment Standard to identify suppliers with fewer than 50 employees. Question 10 asks ‘Are you a Micro, a Small or a Medium‐Sized Enterprise?’ and any suppliers that state they are ‘Micro’ or ‘Small’ have fewer than 50 employees, in accordance with the EC definitions used within the standard, and this information is independently verified by a certification body on an annual basis.
CITB has published its Levy Proposals for 2022‐2025, which would see rates return to 0.35% for PAYE staff and 1.25% for CIS sub‐contractors for the next three years.
A number of temporary measures introduced in the 2021 Levy Order would be maintained, including the increase in the Levy Exemption Threshold to £120,000 and the 50% reduction in Levy rates for employers with wage bills between £120,000 and £400,000. In line with CITB’s Consensus process, Build UK will be formally consulting Levy‐paying members on the proposals from 14 June to 30 July.
All Levy‐registered employers should have now received their 2021 Levy Return, and members are reminded to list all the trade bodies they are a member of when completing and returning it by the deadline of Wednesday 30 June.
Construction Minister Anne‐Marie Trevelyan has praised the industry’s vital role during the coronavirus pandemic, telling an audience at UK Construction Week earlier this month: ‘We in Government have thanked you time and again for everything you’ve done, and we continue to be grateful. In hugely challenging circumstances, you have helped maintain essential infrastructure, supported the delivery of public services, kept homes safe and secure, and now, you are driving the economic recovery.’
With the announcement from the Prime Minister that the potential spread of the Indian variant could delay the end of social distancing measures beyond 21 June, the Minister also highlighted the importance of the Site Operating Procedures, which have been adopted across construction sites of all types and sizes, enabling the industry to continue working whilst other sectors had to close. Members should continue to implement the Site Operating Procedures, which will be reviewed by Build UK at the appropriate time in line with the outcome of the review into social distancing.
Thank you to all those members that joined the meeting with the Small Business Commissioner, Philip King, last week to discuss the changes to the Prompt Payment Code, including the new requirement to pay 95% of invoices from businesses with fewer than 50 employees within 30 days from 1 July 2021.
The discussion answered a wide range of queries that have been raised by members, including that only direct employees should be counted when determining if a company has fewer than 50 employees and that compliance with the new requirement will be enforced from a signatory’s next full reporting period, which for members with a financial year ending 31 December will be January 2022
Build UK is working with the Small Business Commissioner to produce a summary of the key points raised during the meeting, which will be shared with members in due course.
As the UK has left the European Union, the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessment) mark has been introduced to indicate conformance to a number of UK regulations. Some UK entities that are currently classified as ‘distributors’ will be reclassified as ‘importers’ from 1 January 2021, and will need to ensure that they are aware of the additional obligations that this brings.
This webinar, hosted by CPA and BSI, aims to clarify some of the biggest questions within the construction sector around timelines, importers, distributors, challenges and opportunities.
The webinar will take place on Thursday 20th May at 10.00am. Book your place now.
Six Build UK members are among the first ‘Business Champions’ named by the CLC as part of its CO2nstruct Zero programme to drive carbon out of the construction sector. Keltbray, Laing O’Rourke, Mace, Mid Group, Multiplex and Rider Levett Bucknall have all made a commitment to one or more of nine priorities ‐ which include accelerating the shift to zero emission vehicles and plant, enhancing the energy performance of new and existing buildings, and developing low carbon materials ‐ and will demonstrate the steps they are taking to respond to the net zero challenge as role models for the industry.
The CLC is keen to grow the network of Business Champions and will be publishing the latest companies to commit each month. Build UK members across the supply chain can find out more and sign up at any time.
Following the introduction of the Points‐Based Immigration System, Build UK has produced a simple flowchart to guide members through the process of employing a foreign worker.
The new flowchart covers the EU Settlement Scheme, which closes for applications on 30 June 2021, the Points‐Based Immigration System and the Skilled Worker Visa, which is required from 1 July 2021, and provides links to further guidance on a particular area if required.
The Home Office has confirmed that temporary changes to right to work checks introduced in response to the coronavirus pandemic will now end on 20 June 2021, rather than 17 May as originally planned. This means that employers can continue to undertake checks via video calls and use scanned copies rather than original documents until that date.
This time last year, we were coming out of the first national lockdown, with nearly 80% of construction sites open and the Government well aware of the significant economic value of construction. Twelve months on, the Prime Minister has confirmed that the latest lockdown restrictions will be eased again from next Monday 17 May, representing ‘a very considerable step on the road back to normality’. Whilst there are some significant changes, particularly in terms of close contact, anyone who can work from home should continue to do so and there will be minimal impact on construction activities, which should continue to implement the Site Operating Procedures as well as The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus.
The Prime Minister also announced that the outcome of the Government’s review into social distancing, including the rules on 1 metre plus and the wearing of face coverings, will be shared by the end of this month, giving businesses time to prepare for any changes from 21 June. Build UK will review the Site Operating Procedures and other guidance in accordance with the changes.
New border requirements: Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) controls
Watch a series of recordings about trading with the EU under new rules: Webinars on trading with the EU. This includes the basics about what you need to know: an overview of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) controls, UK traffic management and customs VAT and excise goods. (Border and Protocol Delivery Group)
New border requirements: new GB regulatory regime for chemicals
Watch Recordings from December 2020 border event: Direct maritime routes. This video series illustrates the new border changes through a series of case studies showing the movement of goods through the maritime ports focussing on routes to Belgium and the Netherlands. (Border and Protocol Delivery Group)
Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, which starts next Monday 10 May, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has published a ‘Talking Toolkit' containing practical advice on preventing work-related stress. Stress, depression and anxiety are collectively the second biggest cause of work-related illness in the industry, and the toolkit is aimed at helping businesses to establish regular conversations with their workforce around these issues and to find solutions.
The Lighthouse Club has also launched its biggest ever campaign, ‘Help Inside the Hard Hat', and published a wide range of resources to support mental health.
Build UK is flagging up a slight decline in activity in the construction sector. The latest information from Builders’ Conference shows that both the number and value of contracts awarded in April decreased for the first time this year. There were 548 contracts worth £5.7 billion, which has dropped below the monthly average of £6.0 billion in the year prior to coronavirus for the first time since December. 40% of all the contracts awarded by value were housing (£2.3 billion), with road projects making up 13% (£949 million) and office projects 10% (£581 million).
The industry will be hoping that this was a blip in the road due to the Easter break and that the continued easing of coronavirus restrictions over the coming weeks will drive the economic recovery and see construction activity increase again.
However recent industry surveys have confirmed that materials shortages are now a major concern for the construction industry. According to media reports, a survey conducted by the Roya Institute of Chartered Surveyors found that, while respondents were reporting rising workloads, headed up by strong housebuilding activity, nonetheless up to 57% believed that materials shortages were the main obstacle to a stronger recovery.
Meanwhile the CLC Product Availability Group has issued an updated statement on the availability of construction products. This confirms that ‘in general, products are available but lead times have lengthened’. The worst affected products continue to be timber, roof tiles and roofing membranes.
As Covid-19 lockdown restrictions ease to an end, CITB are clarifying how they'll be returning to face-to-face engagement with you.
CITB are already able to hold apprentice reviews outside where required, and National Construction Colleges are open with a program of COVID-19 testing to keep learners and the team safe, they are also continuing to deliver learning remotely, with office staff working from home too.
From Monday 17 May CITB will be holding more apprentice reviews, meeting employers (with limited numbers), and rolling out more on-site teaching. They'll continue remote learning and working, but there will be the opportunity to start delivering this in person for specific courses.
From Monday 21 June all apprentice reviews can be delivered in person but can also be remote if that is a better option, they expect up to 30 people can attend events, remote learning and working will still be encouraged. They’ll have a more open programme of learning at the colleges, and while CITB's offices will reopen, they're currently discussing with colleagues how best to combine home and office working.
End of year performance review
CITB's end-of-year performance review showed how they responded swiftly to the Covid-19 pandemic to support the industry. The first three months saw:
suspend Levy collection as businesses faced critical cash challenges.
offer an advanced apprenticeship grant which saw £3.4 million paid to over 2,000 employers.
provide e-learning and remote working, with remote learning and new courses ensuring qualifications were not a barrier to returning to work.
offer Covid-19 support which saw 21,800 people complete the pandemic health and safety eCourse
As few as 248 out of 11,000 CITB’s apprentices were made redundant during the pandemic, underlining the commitment showed by employers, which CITB have supported. CITB has been able to place more than half of these with alternative employers or get them to completion, and they continue to support others to restart their apprenticeship. CITB grants have supported 23,322 apprenticesand 8,883 employers.
Go Construct continued to direct more people to our industry, surpassing four of its five targets with 671,656 people visiting its channels, including social media. Website improvements saw 416,932 new visitors – 75% above what was forecast.
Apprenticeship Travel and Accommodation Funding ‘Travel to Train’
CITB is widening the support offer for employers with apprentices who must “Travel to Train”. CITB will fund 80% of accommodation costs for eligible apprentices with grant eligible employers who attend colleges or training providers where overnight stays and travel to and from a hotel to a place of training, are required.
Employers can also claim excess costs for apprentice travel where the cost exceeds £30 per week.
Accommodation funding and/or travel costs can only be claimed for apprentices employed by CITB registered, grant eligible employers in England, Scotland and Wales.
If you would like more information about accommodation funding for your apprentices or about how to claim travel costs, email your enquiry to: ApprenticeAccom.TravelSupport@citb.co.uk
HSE talking toolkit: preventing work-related stress in construction
Stress, depression and anxiety are the second biggest causes of work-related ill health in the construction industry. The earlier this problem is tackled the less impact it will have on workers and business. Taking positive action can help to create a more engaged workforce, keep people in work, boost productivity and save money.
Nation Council Chair vacancies: Help shape the future of construction skills
CITB has Nation Council Chair vacancies for England and Scotland. The Nation Councils have an important role in supporting the CITB Board in setting and reviewing CITB’s direction and performance, by providing insight into industry challenges and the impact of CITBs interventions and support. Applications are invited from across the sector, including SMEs, large employers, and independent consultants.
CITB is also recruiting independent members of its Audit and Risk, and Industry Funding committees.
Anyone interested in applying for the vacancies should visit:
‘Cartels in construction – CMA message for business leaders
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today published an opinion piece in Construction Newsdetailing why construction companies must take cartel risk, where rivals get together and break competition rules, seriously.
The CMA has fined construction firms £67 million across 5 competition law cases in recent years.
As well as large fines for the companies, 11 directors in total were disqualified from acting as directors as a result of these cases. There have also been 2 criminal convictions.
The CMA is urging the wider industry to take note to avoid making similar mistakes, reminding company directors of their responsibility to lead by example and be aware of how their organisation is operating.
The CMA has launched a ‘Cheating or Competing’ Construction Campaign featuring a new collection of construction case studies alongside advice for the sector.
The authority is also working with procurement officials across central and local government, to make it easier for them to spot and report suspected illegal activity.
The Government has appointed former Chief Construction Adviser Paul Morrell OBE to chair an independent review of the system for testing construction products, with support from legal expert Anneliese Day QC. Announced earlier this year as part of improving building safety following the Grenfell Tower fire, the review will examine how to strengthen the current system for testing and certifying construction products to provide confidence that they are safe and perform as marketed. The review is not limited to products intended for use in high‐rise residential buildings and will seek evidence from a range of stakeholders before submitting recommendations to Government in summer 2021.
There are now 10 major Contractors and Clients specifying the Common Assessment Standard after Kier, Sir Robert McAlpine and Derwent London became the latest organisations to confirm they have adopted it for their pre‐qualification requirements. The full list is available on the Build UK website and members of the supply chain can obtain the Common Assessment Standard from any one of three Recognised Assessment Bodies ‐ Achilles, CHAS or Constructionline.
The Common Assessment Standard, which is endorsed by the CLC, has two levels of certification ‐ desktop and site‐based ‐ and companies should apply for the appropriate level dependent upon their trade, size and requirements of their clients. Companies that are certified against the standard by a Recognised Assessment Body can use the appropriate version of the Common Assessment Standard logo.
Grants available for SME's to assist with importing and exporting
You can now apply for the SME Brexit Support Fund. Smaller businesses can apply for a grant of up to £2,000 to pay for practical support, including training or professional advice to adjust to new customs, rules of origin and VAT rules when trading with the EU.
Eligible businesses Checklist:
have been established in the UK for at least 12 months before submitting the application, or currently hold Authorised Economic Operator status;
not have previously failed to meet tax or customs obligations;
have no more than 500 employees;
have no more than £100 million turnover.
This grant can be used for training in the following areas:
how to complete customs declarations;
how to manage customs processes and use customs software and systems;
specific import and export related aspects including VAT, excise and rules of origin;
Companies that deferred VAT payments between 20 March and 30 June 2020 and still have payments to make need to join the VAT deferral new payment scheme by 21 June 2021. However, if they join by 21 April, they will be able to pay their deferred VAT in 10 instalments, rather than eight or nine instalments if they wait until closer to the deadline. To join the scheme, a company must have:
The CLC Product Availability Group has issued a statement on the availability of construction products, which confirms that demand will remain high throughout 2021 and urges ‘all users [to] plan for increased demand and longer delays, keep open lines of communication with their suppliers and order early for future projects’. It highlights timber, steel, polymer supplies and coatings as materials of particular concern, with both timber and steel experiencing very strong global demand.
Build UK is working with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) to monitor the availability of construction materials post‐Brexit. There are no products currently RAG‐rated ‘red’, with most manufacturers reporting that the mitigation strategies they put in place have avoided significant delays or shortages, and they will continue to hold extra stock this quarter to ensure continuity of supply.
Rapid Testing availability for everyone from 9 April
Twice weekly rapid testing to be available to everyone in England: From 9 April, everyone in England will be able to access free, regular, rapid COVID-19 testing.
On 7 April Build UK and KPMG hosted a webinar on Reverse Charge VAT.
For those members who missed the webinar or who could not attend, please find the slide deck, in the member's area.
At the end of the slide deck, the KPMG team have provided their contact details for follow up questions, which is a good additional benefit. Members should quote Build UK and CFA if they ask questions.
The Government has announced that the next step of the reopening roadmap, Step 2, will take place as planned on 12 April.
This will be the date that "non-essential retail" can reopen. This includes carpet retailers and showrooms, which have had to be closed under the terms of the latest lockdown. The full announcement is here.
It should be noted that the rules on social contact still apply. Therefore indoor settings should only be visited alone or with household groups, with outdoor settings limited to either six people or two households.
The PM also announced an expansion of the testing programme, with everyone in England able to apply for testing kits to be used twice weekly at home.
From today companies, with 10 or more employees who cannot work from home, can order home test kits for their employees, where it is not possible to set up a testing site in the workplace. Employers, who wish to carry out workplace testing, have until Monday 12 April to register for workplace testing. Build UK has produced a guide summarising the process.
The Government has also published an update on the latest reviews of the roadmap. This covers areas such as covid certification, events, international travel and social distancing. The review can be accessed here.
It should be understood that the above changes to regulations apply to England. The situation in the devolved nations of the UK may be different and can be checked at the following links:
Build UK and KPMG will be delivering a Reverse VAT webinar on Wednesday 7 April from 10:00am ‐ 11:00am to answer members’ questions on issues that have arisen during the first month of the legislation.
Workers from the EU or EEA who wish to continue living and working in the UK after 30 June 2021 need to apply for settled or pre‐settled status as a matter of urgency. Whilst it is the responsibility of the individual to make an application to the EU Settlement Scheme, you may wish to support your employees, and there is a range of information provided by the Government, including an employer toolkit with supporting documents and guidance for individuals on applying.
From 6 April, changes to the IR35 rules will mean that medium and large organisations employing workers through an intermediary will have responsibility for determining a worker’s employment status. Build UK has published a practical guide and a checklist to help members prepare for the new rules.
Following the reopening of schools and colleges, the Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed that on‐site training can resume for students of all ages in the following further education (FE) settings if a provider follows the operational guidance:
Sixth form colleges
General FE colleges
Independent Training Providers (ITPs) ‐ defined as organisations that receive Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) formula funding for the provision of 16 to 19 education
Designated institutions
Adult and Community Learning Providers (ACLPs)
Special post‐16 institutions.
All FE providers should continue to follow pre‐COVID‐19 guidance for adult students and “judge the right balance between on‐site and remote delivery in order to provide high quality education and training”. Apprenticeship providers should also read the current apprenticeships guidance, which confirms that FE apprentices may now return to training and assessment in educational settings, in addition to the training and assessment that is currently permitted in the workplace where the apprentice cannot work from home and the workplace is COVID‐19 secure.
There has not been any further guidance issued about resuming face‐to‐face training in the workplace, and companies will need to determine if any training required can be undertaken remotely or is essential at this time, as they may be required to explain how they are complying with current restrictions.
The Scottish government has set out an indicative timetable for the re-opening of parts of the economy over the next two months.
The timetable is as follows:
From 2 April:
A lifting of the ‘Stay at Home’ requirement and replacing it with a ‘Stay Local’ message (retaining the current, local authority-based travel restrictions for at least a three-week period)
From 5 April:
Reopening of non-essential ‘click and collect’ retail
Extending the list of retail permitted to include garden centres (indoor and outdoor), key cutting shops, mobility equipment shops, baby equipment shops, electrical repair shops, hairdressers and barbers (with shopfronts – not mobile services) by appointment only, homeware shops and vehicle showrooms (appointment only) and forecourts
Note: Homeware shops includes carpet and tile showrooms.
From 26 April:
Travel within all of mainland Scotland permitted (subject to other restrictions that remain in place)
Remaining shops can reopen and mobile close contact services can resume
Gyms can reopen for individual exercise
Tourist accommodation to reopen (self-catering accommodation to be restricted in line with rules on indoor gathering)
Work in people’s homes to resume
Driving lessons to resume
Weddings and funerals for up to 50 (including wakes and receptions with no alcohol permitted)
Libraries, museums, galleries re-open
Outdoor hospitality to open till 22:00 with alcohol permitted. Indoor hospitality permitted without alcohol and closing at 20:00
From 17 May:
Further re-opening of hospitality: bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes can stay open until 22:30 indoors with alcohol permitted and 2 hour time-limited slots and until 22:00 outdoors with alcohol permitted
Adult outdoor contact sport and indoor group exercises can resume
Cinemas, amusement arcades and bingo halls can re-open
Small scale indoor and outdoor events can resume subject to capacity constraints (to be confirmed following stakeholder engagement)
Non-professional performance arts can resume outdoors
June:
The First Minister said it is too early to give specific dates beyond May. However, understanding the need for people and businesses to plan, from the start of June, it is hoped that Scotland can move back to Level 1 of the Strategic Framework, allowing further relaxation across all areas of the economy and society, while still applying physical distancing and other non-pharmaceutical interventions and the FACTS guidance.
A move to Level 0 is hoped to be able to take place from the end of June.
The Government’s roadmap out of lockdown confirms that people should continue to work from home where they can, and employers have the same health and safety responsibilities for home workers as for any other workers. The HSE has published information, and there is guidance and a checklist from the CICV Forum.
The CLC has published the first ever sector‐wide Industry Skills Plan, which sets out the key skills challenges facing construction and how these should be tackled over the next four years. The plan emphasises collaboration between industry and Government and prioritises action in four areas:
Careers ‐ creating an industry that is attractive and inclusive, whilst supporting direct employment
Standards and Qualifications ‐ modernising qualifications to boost transferrable skills and embed digital technologies
Training, Education and Development ‐ developing high‐quality routes into the industry and strengthening links between further and higher education and employers
Culture and Working Environment ‐ retaining talent in the industry through upskilling and improved career development.
Key commitments include creating an industry standard for work experience and a single portal for new entrants to the industry, developing training standards for net-zero and smart construction, and recruiting 7,000 construction STEM Ambassadors. The industry’s skills system will be under scrutiny this year with the CITB Consensus process taking place over the summer, and Build UK will shortly begin consulting its members on the future of the CITB Levy.
Build UK is working with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) to monitor the availability of construction materials post‐Brexit. Most manufacturers have reported that the mitigation strategies they put in place have avoided significant delays or shortages, and they will continue to hold extra stock for the forthcoming quarter to ensure continuity of supply. No material is RAG‐rated ‘red’ and the majority of ‘amber’ items are M&E products, including building management systems, data hub equipment, external luminaires, street lighting, lighting control, pumps, press units and booster sets, which are experiencing delays of up to two weeks although this is expected to be a short‐term problem only.
Other materials rated ‘amber’ are Steel and Timber, which have experienced significant price increases due to supply and demand issues. There has been increased demand from China as it recovers from the impact of coronavirus, as well as challenges with new customs requirements and a lack of transport availability. A risk to manage over the next few months is the increased cost of raw materials, particularly Aluminium, Copper and Methyl Methacrylate (MMA), which are all thought to be coronavirus, rather than Brexit, supply and demand issues.
Updated Guidance Released on Delivering Training Within the Flooring Sector
Training within our sector is limited to DfE regulated apprenticeships and qualifications only.
Following the reopening of schools and colleges on 8 March, the Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed that on‐site training can only resume for students in the following further education (FE) settings if a provider follows the operational guidance:
Sixth form colleges
General FE colleges
Independent Training Providers (ITPs) ‐ defined as organisations that receive Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) formula funding for the provision of 16 to 19 education
Designated institutions
Adult and Community Learning Providers (ACLPs)
Special post‐16 institutions.
Building on guidance provided by the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Build UK has advised the CFA that training within our sector must currently be limited to DfE regulated apprenticeships and qualifications.
Unfortunately, this means that privately funded face-to-face training should not be permitted at this time. This includes commercial training courses held at a training facility or on-site and delivered by commercial providers and manufacturer led training.
Based on this update, the training arm of the CFA, FITA (Flooring Industry Training Association) will remain closed for all privately and commercially funded training courses although the planned apprenticeship delivery will continue as per the guidance. Delegate and visitor safety is paramount for FITA as a training organisation and for the industry bodies that support it. It naturally has been our driving force since the beginning of the pandemic and whilst this is disappointing that commercial training cannot continue at FITA, it is clearly stated in the guidance that non-essential training in this form cannot resume at this time.
There has not been any further [specific] guidance issued about resuming face‐to‐face training in the workplace. Companies will need to determine if any training required can be undertaken remotely or is essential at this time, as they may be required to explain how they are complying with the current ‘stay at home’ restrictions.
Apprenticeship providers should also read the current apprenticeships guidance, which confirms that FE apprentices may now return to training and assessment in educational settings, and how this should be managed.
We have been advised that the next part of the government lockdown roadmap that applies to training in construction is the 17 May. CFA and FITA will naturally review the situation and any further specific guidance received leading up to this date in the firm hope that we can fully return to training in our sector. It currently seems unlikely that wider training will be permitted before the 17 May.
You may be contacted by external agencies, on behalf of HSE, arranging to carry out Coronavirus health and safety spot checks.
Please see the Guidance from HSE regarding this. This importantly includes the contact number to verify that the inspection is legitimate and some reminders about the type of things that an inspection will cover.
Inspections may also be carried out on sites and in those situations, HSE will be looking for the good practice outlined in V7 of the site operating procedures (SOP V7).
For our Scottish Members, slightly different rules apply. CICV Forum has extended its suite of guidance for the Scottish construction industry with its newly designed document to help you prepare for and answer potential questions asked by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) during COVID-19 spot checks of premises.
The CICV Forum: Covid-19 Spot Checks document is in our quick links section and can be found here.
Business travel and mutual recognition of qualifications are both topics explained in the UK Government's new on demand videos which focus on priority topics for businesses.
You can also download a step-by-step guide on how to navigate the new rules on business travel to the EU.
You can also use the Brexit Checker tool on gov.uk/transition, which will provide you with a personalised list of the most up to date actions that your business needs to take.
Under the current restrictions, you are unlikely to be travelling abroad, however, if you are planning to travel to the EEA or Switzerland for work or business purposes in the future, you should:
Additionally, check the relevant country’s websites for details on application requirements and processing times if you need to make an application, and apply sufficiently in advance of travel. If in doubt you should apply as far in advance as possible.
Irish Customs have introduced some additional functionality for those using the Pre-Boarding Notifications service - providing text and email updates for channel routings for loads. For more information, click here.
List of customs agents and fast parcel operators
The list of agents and operators who can help submit customs declarations, has been updated. For more information, click here.
A new summary of actions SMEs may need to take to trade with the EU is now available.
The document provides an overview of actions to take, outlines support, helplines and resources that may be useful for SMEs, and signposts more detailed guidance on Government websites.
The National Living Wage will increase by 2.2% from £8.72 to £8.91, and will be extended to 23 and 24 year olds for the first time. For workers aged under 23, Commissioners recommended smaller increases in recognition of the risks to youth employment which the current economic situation poses.
Changes to the IR35 rules will be introduced from 6 April 2021 and medium and large organisations employing workers through an intermediary will have responsibility for determining a worker’s employment status under the new rules. Build UK has published a checklist of the actions that businesses need to take, along with a practical guide providing an overview of the new rules.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published CO2nstruct Zero, a cross‐industry programme to drive carbon out of the construction sector as part of reaching the UK’s net zero target by 2050. With a focus on transport, buildings and construction activity, CO2nstruct Zero identifies nine priorities to enable everyone in the supply chain to play their part, and the CLC will be:
Developing a single overarching programme which increases the impact of the sector
Setting and reporting on measurable targets
Championing the policy changes required
Signposting towards initiatives industry can support
Engaging with Government on showcasing the sector at COP26.
The CLC will also be joining the Race to Zero on behalf of the sector and is encouraging companies of all sizes to become ‘Business Champions’ and share their net zero activities against the nine priorities.
As part of the government’s roadmap to cautiously lift restrictions, businesses of all sizes, including those with fewer than 50 employees, can register from today to order free lateral flow tests for their employees.
Around 1 in 3 people with coronavirus don’t have symptoms, which means they could be spreading the virus in workplaces without knowing. Rapid testing detects cases quickly – in under 30 minutes – meaning positive cases can isolate immediately, breaking chains of transmission.
Regular testing could be the difference between a workplace being able to stay open and operational, or needing to close due to a COVID-19 outbreak. It will form a crucial part of the government’s plan to gradually and safely ease restrictions as we get back to a more normal life.
So far over 3,500 businesses are signed up to offer workplace testing programmes, and over 14,000 have registered their interest in offering rapid testing, with many already rolling tests out.
Businesses have until 31 March to register for the government’s workplace testing scheme, which will remain free until the end of June. All those who can work from home should continue to do so.
Register to order free lateral flow coronavirus tests for your employees here
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) has been extended until the end of September 2021.
The UK Government will continue to pay 80% of employees’ usual wages for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,500 per month, up to the end of June 2021.
For periods in July, CJRS grants will cover 70% of employees’ usual wages for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,187.50. In August and September, this will then reduce to 60% of employees’ usual wages up to a cap of £1,875.
You will need to continue to pay your furloughed employees at least 80% of their usual wages for the hours they do not work during this time, up to a cap of £2,500 per month. This means, for periods between July and September, you will need to fund the difference between this and the CJRS grants yourself. You can also top up wages above the 80% if you wish, but you are not required to do so.
You must continue to pay the associated Employer National Insurance contributions and pension contributions on subsidised furlough pay from your own funds.
Build UK has reviewed the CSCS consultation on introducing an Industry Placement card for students undertaking formal on‐site work experience of at least 45 days, including those registered on T Level or university degree courses. The consultation recommends that the card should only be available to those aged 16 and over, and students should be required to have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test or equivalent offered by a CSCS Partner Scheme. Build UK has prepared a draft response and comments should be submitted via email by Friday 5 March.
Despite a concerted industry campaign, Reverse VAT came into force on 1 March and members should make sure they have read Build UK’s practical guide to understand how the legislation will affect their business. If you haven’t already, use Build UK's checklist to make sure you have taken the necessary actions, including updating your invoices with the required information. HMRC has confirmed it will ‘apply a light touch’ when dealing with any errors over the next six months, provided that companies can demonstrate they have tried to comply and acted in good faith. To assist, it has published flowcharts for both buyers and suppliers to help them identify when Reverse VAT should be used.
National Apprenticeship Week: raising awareness of the construction industry
The construction industry will need to create the equivalent of an estimated 350,000 new roles by 2028 if the government is to meet its target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It is essential that the sector attracts, trains, and retains the workers it needs to ensure growth, which was one of the aims behind National Apprenticeship Week (8-14 February).
42,590 users engaged with the new Go Construct website, of which 4,725 were sent on to jobs and apprenticeship websites. We also had 25 industry organisations reference Go Construct as an information source for potential recruits. Visit the Go Construct website to read and watch some inspiring apprentice case studies!
CITB are the custodians of the Industry’s Levy. They collect this from all but the smallest construction employers and use it to invest in the skills and training construction needs – both right now and what will be needed in the future. The CITB work closely with the government to influence funding and policy, and partner with industry to prioritise our work; providing funding direct to employers and a range of other services to help attract new talent and retain and skill construction workers.
Last year employers made it clear that the CITB should focus on supporting them through the pandemic and postponed the Consensus exercise. This year employers will be assessed at a reduced rate, whilst the CITB continue to maximise the support we provide to employers.
Due to collecting feedback, the CITB has found it is the right time to proceed with running Consensus. And they are looking forward to talking with businesses from across the sector to understand their views, and explaining how they'll use their money to provide the training and the skills that the industry needs.
While views are sought on the draft Levy Proposals, CITB has also assessed the areas of greatest need for developing skills in the sector and will be testing the top 10 that our evidence suggests. CITB will enhance funding and support to these areas, which include skills gaps, jobs shortages, and the industry’s environmental impact.
Consensus and the Levy: virtual events for employers
Once feedback on the draft Levy Proposals is in, the Consensus exercise will take place from Monday 14 June to Sunday 15 August, with more information available at:
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), together with Cabinet Office, DCMS and Home Office, has recently launched the latest phase of its Cyber Aware campaign.
More information on this can be found in our member's area. Click here to login.
Business Backing Talent: Scottish Apprenticeship Week (1-5 March)
Now excitement turns to Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2021 which is this week (1-5 March). This year’s theme is Business Backing Talent to showcase the great benefits of taking on an apprentice. Of 30,000 apprentices learning in Scotland, almost a third are in construction, even though the sector represents just 8% of all jobs.
CITB have worked with Developing the Young Workforce to create Build Your Future, a suite of virtual career resources, launching 1 March to coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week, and in support of International Women’s Day. Throughout the week, you can access helpful career insight covering innovation, trades and apprenticeships, women in construction, professionals in construction, and collaboration in construction.
Educators and parents/carers can choose to work through all of the resources in the pack, insert them into lessons, or support their young people to learn about the industry in bite-sized chunks. You can get involved and find the resources on the DYW website.
Following publication of the roadmap for lifting lockdown restrictions in England, the Government has released a series of posters showing at a glance which restrictions will be relaxed at each of the four steps of the roadmap. There will be at least five weeks between each step and the indicative ‘no earlier than’ dates are subject to change if the four specific tests are not met.
The Scottish Government has released its COVID‐19 Strategic Framework Update which sets out a phased approach to easing lockdown restrictions back to the previous geographical tiered level system by the end of April. The current restrictions will be relaxed in four stages, each at least three weeks apart subject to the six conditions within the framework being met. The earliest date for non‐essential work to be resumed in people’s homes is 26 April.
Build UK and its members have received requests for information from various sources which we have summarised below.
Framework Review ‐ As part of rolling out the Construction Playbook, a review of public sector frameworks is being undertaken by David Mosey who has sent out a detailed questionnaire. Build UK has rationalised the questions for the supply chain, and this survey should be completed by members that bid for public sector frameworks by Friday 5 March.
PI Insurance ‐ The CLC is undertaking an industry‐wide survey on Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance and will use the results to demonstrate to Government the challenges in obtaining appropriate cover. All members are asked to complete and share this survey by Friday 12 March.
Cost of COVID‐19 ‐ The CLC is also looking to understand the cost of COVID‐19 to the construction supply chain. Whilst financial support is not anticipated from Government, the data will be helpful in asking for other support measures. This survey is relevant to the top 100 contractors and will be reviewed by the IPA.
We are aware that it can be time consuming responding to surveys and we recognise that you may need to prioritise those which are most relevant to your business.
The Government has extended the incentive payment for hiring a new apprentice until 30 April 2021. Employers taking on new apprentices between 1 August 2020 and 31 March 2021 are eligible to receive a grant of £2,000 per apprentice aged 16 ‐ 25 and £1,500 for those 25 and over.
CITB has confirmed that its Levy Consensus process will take place between 14 June and 15 August 2021 after being delayed last year due to coronavirus. This year, and in a change to the usual process, CITB is intending to consult Levy payers on its proposals and particular areas of support before the formal Consensus process. Levy‐registered employers will be sent a letter next week inviting them to give their views online and they will need to provide their Levy Registration Number to respond before 11 April.
As part of its preparations for the formal Consensus process, Build UK will shortly be sharing a proposal setting out the services and support that the industry expects and needs from its Training Board.
Updated links to guidance provided by BEIS are available in the Member Loginarea for CFA members on a range of topics such as European Commission guidance, Agreements reached between the UK and Northern Ireland and the EU, and The Agenda of the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee.
Can employers require their employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19?
“Clearly, the question of whether an employer can require their employees be vaccinated is far from straightforward and has significant potential to lead to liability for unfair dismissal and indirect discrimination, as well as giving rise to data protection issues. The starting point should therefore be for employers to have an open, transparent dialogue with staff to encourage vaccination, educate on its benefits and support staff access to the vaccine, rather than making it mandatory. Legal advice should be sought before any mandatory vaccination requirement is imposed on staff, to help the employer assess whether such a requirement might be reasonable, and better understand the risks and liabilities associated with it.”
The Government has extended the incentive payment for hiring a new apprentice until 30 April 2021. Employers taking on new apprentices between 1 August 2020 and 31 March 2021 are eligible to receive a grant of £2,000 per apprentice aged 16 ‐ 25 and £1,500 for those 25 and over. This is in addition to the £1,000 payment available for hiring an apprentice aged 16 ‐ 18 or under 25 with an education, health and care plan or who has been in the care of their local authority.
Companies must set up an apprenticeship service account to apply for the incentive payment; if you have already started your apprentice without an account, you will not be able to claim the incentive.
The campaign to #StopReverseVAT has now reached almost two million social media users, and Build UK will continue to push for the legislation to be withdrawn until its introduction on 1 March. However, as this is now less than a week away, members are urged to ensure they are prepared for the changes, and Build UK has produced a helpful checklist setting out the steps that should be taken.
HMRC has confirmed that it will ‘apply a light touch’ when dealing with errors in the first six months, provided that companies have attempted to comply with the legislation and acted in good faith, and Build UK’s Practical Guide to Reverse VAT provides an easy to read overview of the legislation.
Build UK has published a simple guide to the Government’s workplace testing programme, which enables sites with 50 or more workers to undertake asymptomatic Lateral Flow Device (LFD) testing. The guide explains the testing process and sets out the steps required to set up a testing site. Tests are being provided free of charge until at least 31 March 2021, and companies should read the guide before signing up via the Government’s online portal.
Businesses with fewer than 50 workers are currently not eligible for workplace testing; however, they can access the Community Testing Programme in their local area by using the new postcode checker or visiting their local authority website and searching ‘LFD testing’.
The Prime Minister has confirmed the Government’s four‐step plan for a ‘cautious’ route out of lockdown in England. The current restrictions will be gradually relaxed, beginning with schools and colleges reopening from 8 March, and four specific tests will need to be met at each stage before further restrictions are lifted. The comprehensive roadmap confirms that individuals should continue to work from home where they can until at least 21 June, which is the fourth step and when social distancing measures will be reviewed.
The Scottish Government is expected to set out its plans for easing restrictions this week, with the Welsh Government due to review its current measures on 12 March and the Government of Northern Ireland on 18 March.
Updated links to guidance provided by BEIS are available in the Member Loginarea for CFA members on a range of topics such as the Japan Free Trade Agreement, ECMT and GVMS, and RoW Trade.
You can now submit your claims for periods in February. These must be made by Monday 15 March.
You can claim before, during or after you process your payroll. If you can, it’s best to make a claim once you’re sure of the exact number of hours your employees will work so you don’t have to amend your claim later.
Check if you and your employees are eligible and work out how much you can claim using the HMRC CJRS calculator and examples, on GOV.UK.
What you need to do now
If you haven’t submitted your claim for January but believe that you have a reasonable excuse for missing the deadline, check if you can make a late claim on GOV.UK.
Submit any claims for February no later than Monday 15 March.
Keep records that support the amount of CJRS grants you claim, in case HMRC needs to check them.
If you deferred paying VAT due in the period from 20 March to 30 June 2020, you should pay it by 31 March 2021 if you can.
If you can’t afford to pay by 31 March 2021, you can join the VAT deferral new payment scheme and pay your deferred VAT over a longer period.
The online service will open on 23 February 2021 and close on 21 June 2021. You can make up to 11 monthly instalments, interest-free. The earlier you join, the more months you can spread your payments across.
You can join the scheme online without the need to call – go to GOV.UK for more information or to join quickly and simply when the scheme opens.
If you need more time, please contact HMRC – go to GOV.UK.
Taking place between 8-14 February across England and Wales, National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) will see a conversation about the benefits of becoming an apprentice play out across social media, supported by contributions and campaigns from government, industry bodies and employers.
Construction plays a central role in NAW, which means the week is one of the best opportunities for construction employers to recruit highly engaged young people to apprenticeships.
CITB will be working in the build up to and during NAW to spread the word about construction and construction apprenticeships, highlighting real stories being shared by real apprentices.
Our main activity will take place across Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube using #NAW2021 and #BuildTheFuture, and we will be directing people to find out more about apprenticeships on the GoConstruct.org website.
Repost Go Construct’s NAW content on your own social channels, using #NAW2021 and #BuildTheFuture in the accompanying post copy.
Share your own stories of apprentices achieving – please tag @GoConstruct so we can share your posts more widely.
NAW is a chance for the construction sector to talk to young people about fantastic learning opportunities and careers in the trade, and in the current situation offer young people facing a future with a disheartening lack of possibilities an rewarding career, with a great employer. And for us, it gives us the chance to secure the home grown talent we absolutely need!
Scottish Apprenticeship Week takes place on 1-5 March – more detail soon.
Covid-19 Testing: Expansion to firms with over 50 employees
The Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) are now widening the scope of the support they provide for asymptomatic Lateral Flow Device testing to include all businesses in all sectors with over 50 employees. A number of webinars are being held to provide information to eligible firms.
Download the information and get access to webinar details via the Member Login Area.
CITB: Site Operating Procedures, COVID eCourses & more
Despite recent promising developments with vaccines, COVID-19 continues to have a huge impact on our lives. With this in mind, this week’s CITB update includes the latest site operating procedures, an update on the COVID eCourse 'Setting up and operating a safe construction site', and more information about HS&E Tests across England, Scotland and Wales.
Site Operating Procedures
Following the CLC update of Site Operating Procedures (v7) last week, CITB have updated their supporting COVID-19 Site Safety Checklists and Forms to assist construction employers. The resources will ensure that those who are permitted and able to return to work have a clear understanding of how they can apply the new Site operating procedures in practice.
COVID eCourse Update
Over 10,000 people have already taken CITB's FREE COVID-19 H&S course since its launch at the end of October 2020. Since then the country has entered its third lockdown and CITB have made updates to the course on a regular basis to ensure it remains relevant, including the most recent SOP guidance (v7) from the CLC.
HS&E Tests
There have been updates to the provision of HS&E Testing across all three nations. Testing remains in place in England and has resumed again in Wales, but in Scotland, updated government guidance has meant CITB have ceased delivery of testing. Ensure you check CITB's Urgent Messages page for the latest information before trying to book.
Following on from recent discussions regarding Covid–19 testing in the workplace, the Department for Health & Social Care (DHSC) is keen to work with Build UK to roll out its COVID-19 testing programme.
We expect sites with more than 250 workers to be approached in the first instance and companies selected to take part will be provided with Lateral Flow Test kits, together with guidance on setting up a testing site and online training for staff. They will also be required to commit to managing the process and test results.
DHSC has provided the attached information and is running a series of webinars daily 2-3pm from Wednesday 20 January – Friday 29 January detailing what the testing programme entails.
If you (or your members), have suitable sites and would be interested in being considered for the programme please could you send me the contact details of the appropriate person in your company. It would be extremely helpful if they could attend one of the webinars in the next week and the dial in details are below.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme - Update 18th January
We have received the below update from HMRC regarding the next deadline for claiming under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), and updates on the information HMRC will be publishing shortly on your claims.
Also included is information on furloughing employees who may need to care for children at home due to school and childcare closures, and an update on VAT deferral.
"December claims
Thank you if you submitted your December furlough claim by the deadline of 14 January.
If you didn’t, we may still accept it if you have a reasonable excuse for not claiming by the deadline, such as you were self-isolating or had an unexpected stay in hospital that prevented you from completing it.
If your reason means you can claim late, please do so as soon as you’re able to, and note that reasonable excuses only apply to late claims for periods from November onwards. For more information on reasonable excuses, go to GOV.UK and search 'claim for wages'.
If you have already submitted your claims for December but need to make a change because you didn’t claim enough, you can do this until Thursday 28 January.
To find out how to amend your claim, search 'Get help with the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme' on GOV.UK.
You can now make January claims
You can now submit your claims for periods in January. These must be made by Monday 15 February.
You can claim before, during or after you process your payroll. If you can, it’s best to make a claim once you’re sure of the exact number of hours your employees will work so you don’t have to amend your claim at a later date.
You and your employees do not need to have benefitted from the scheme before to make a claim. You can check if you’re eligible and work out how much you can claim using our CJRS calculator and examples, by searching 'Job Retention Scheme' on GOV.UK.
What you need to do now
If you haven’t submitted your claim for December but believe that you have a reasonable excuse, check if you can apply to make a late claim by searching 'claim for wages' on GOV.UK.
Check you claimed the right amount in December by looking at the eligibility criteria and calculating how much you can claim – search 'Job Retention Scheme' on GOV.UK.
Submit any claims for January no later than Monday 15 February.
Keep records that support the amount of CJRS grants you claim, in case HMRC needs to check them.
Making your claim online
To make a CJRS claim, you will need to be registered and have the required access, password or activation code for HMRC online services. For more information search 'HMRC services' on GOV.UK.
Furlough for caring responsibilities
Your employees can ask to be furloughed because they have caring responsibilities resulting from coronavirus, such as caring for children who are at home as a result of school or childcare closing. You can place them on furlough and claim for them under the CJRS.
Publishing information on claims
On 26 January we will be publishing a list of employer names who have claimed CJRS for periods from December onwards, on GOV.UK.
From February, we will publish the names, an indication of the value of claims and Company Registration Numbers (for those who have one) of employers who make CJRS claims for periods starting on or after 1 December. The published value of your claim will be shown within a banded range – to find a list of these, search 'Check if you can claim for your employees' wages' on GOV.UK.
We will not publish details of employers claiming through the scheme if they can show that publicising these would result in a serious risk of violence or intimidation to individuals, or those living with them. To request for your details not to be published, complete the online application form – go to GOV.UK and search 'Check if you can claim for your employees' wages'.
If you need to do this, we will not publish your details until a decision has been made and you have been informed. You'll only need to apply once, as the decision will cover all CJRS claim periods starting from 1 December 2020. You must make the application yourself, and it can’t be made by an agent on your behalf.
Your employees will also be able to check if you have made a CJRS claim on their behalf through their online Personal Tax Account from February. They can set up a Personal Tax Account by going to GOV.UK and searching 'Personal Tax Account: sign in or set up'.
Details of CJRS claims will now be published monthly as part of HMRC’s commitment to transparency and to deter fraudulent claims.
VAT Payments Deferral Scheme – correcting errors
If you notice an error on a VAT return which relates to a period covered by the VAT Payments Deferral Scheme, you should send a VAT652 form to us as soon as possible. Go to GOV.UK and search 'Correct errors on your VAT Returns' for more information.
You will then receive a Statement of Account confirming your balance, and if any extra payments are needed as a result, you can contact us to defer these too, before the end of January.
You can:
pay the deferred VAT in full on or before 31 March 2021
opt in to the VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme when it launches in early 2021 (more information to follow shortly)
contact HMRC if you need more help to pay.
Where can I get further support?
Thousands of people have joined and benefitted from our live webinars which now offer more support on changes to CJRS, and how they affect you. To book online, or to view updated guidance, go to GOV.UK and search 'help and support if your business is affected by coronavirus'.
There’s also a list of monthly claims deadlines and a helpful step-by-step guide on GOV.UK, summarising the latest information on CJRS and the steps you need to take to make a claim – you can find these by searching 'Job Retention Scheme step-by-step guide'.
Our phone lines and webchat remain very busy, so the quickest way to find the support you need is on GOV.UK. This will leave our phone lines and webchat service open for those who need them most.
Protect yourself from scams
Stay vigilant about scams, which may mimic government messages as a way of appearing authentic. Search 'scams' on GOV.UK for information on how to recognise genuine HMRC contact. You can forward suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599.
Access the National Cyber Security Centre’s new guide on how to stay secure online and protect yourself and your business against cyber crime by visiting 'CyberAware.gov.uk'.
I hope this information helps you and your business, and we’ll continue to keep you updated."
Payment for small firms - Change in Government policy
Contractors signed up to the Prompt Payment Code will have to pay small businesses within 30 days, the government has announced.
Under changes to the current rules, the 60-day payment time is to be cut for payment to firms with less than 50 employees. From 1 July 2021, they will be expected to pay 95 per cent of their invoices within the period, or they could face sanctions, such as suspension from the code. Government best-practice guidance already says invoices should be settled within 30 days, but the Prompt Payment Code standard is 60.
The target time for paying larger businesses will remain at 95 per cent of invoices within 60 days, a statement from the government said.
It also announced that company CEOs or finance directors will be obliged to personally sign the code to show responsibility for prompt payment is being taken at the highest level of a company.
Administrators of the code will also investigate breaches based on third-party information from now on, it added.
Last week, Construction News analysis showed that the median time taken by the 100 largest contractors to make payment is 41 days, a slight improvement on the previous analysis. Nearly a third of all payments breached terms, usually meaning an agreement to pay at a deadline beyond 30 days was also missed.
Small business minister Paul Scully said: “Our incredible small businesses will be vital to our recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, supporting millions of livelihoods across the UK.
“Today, we are relieving some of the pressure on small business owners by introducing significant reforms to the UK payments regime – pushing big businesses to pay their suppliers on time.”
A raft of construction firms were publicly suspended from the code in 2019 after a naming and shaming process was introduced. They have all since been reinstated.
Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) national chairman Mike Cherry said: “A late payment crisis was massively stifling the UK economy before COVID hit. The pandemic has deepened it.”
He welcomed the changes and added: “Ending our pernicious poor payment culture for good over the coming months will be fundamental to turning our hopes of economic recovery into reality.”
This guidance is for tradespeople and businesses who employ tradespeople providing goods and services in or to other peoples’ homes. This includes all in-home workers in accordance with relevant sectoral and industry guidance.
Q: What steps should I take to protect myself and others when working in someone else’s home?
In this public health crisis, it is vital that everyone act responsibly and align fully with published guidance. At a minimum this should include:
2 metres physical distancing
good ventilation
the wearing of face coverings
effective hygiene practices
appropriate risk assessment
contact tracing and appropriate self-isolation
These are the most effective means of preventing transmission of the virus and saving lives.
People delivering goods to, or services in or outside a customer’s house, can travel between COVID-19 Protection Levels for the purpose of work where that work is essential and allowed under the regulations.
Across all Levels and during Lockdown tradespeople and businesses should contact the customer or client in advance to:
ensure the customer or client agrees to have their contact details recorded for the purpose of contact tracing
check the household is not self-isolating
People should not enter the home if any of its occupants are self-isolating, except where such work is essential for emergency health and safety reasons. In such circumstances tradespeople and businesses should review any risk assessment processes they have in place and be especially vigilant in implementing existing mitigation measures throughout the duration of the work, such as
physical distancing
hand hygiene
avoiding unnecessary contact with household surfaces
use of face coverings
These mitigations are essential to break the chain of transmission.
CITB: Site Operating Procedures, Expiry of SSP Certificates & More
Site Safety Plus Certificate Expiry
In response to various feedback recieved by CITB, we can confirm the introduction of a revised grace period to Site Safety Plus certificates. This will provide support to delegates who are unable to access a Site Safety Plus refresher course, due to the new lockdown measures.
All delegates now have until 30 April 2021 to join a SSSTS/SMSTS refresher course, if their current certificate expires after 1 October 2020. Any delegate whose certificate expired before the 1 October 2020 and does not attend a refresher course before 31 January 2021, will be required to join a full SSSTS/SMSTS course, rather than the refresher equivalent. Find the centres delivering remote refresher training here.
Training Group Consultation
In a previous update, we informed you of the funding CITB provides to a network of Training Groups, and invited your views on the best ways to help employers’ access training at a local level. Following requests from several organisations, we have extended the industry consultation on Training Group funding, to ensure as many employers and interested parties have time to submit their feedback. Therefore, you now have until 5pm on 29 January 2021. More information and a link to the survey can be found here.
Celebrating Apprentices
With national apprenticeship weeks coming up shortly in England and Wales and then in Scotland, we are very keen to celebrate the contribution that apprentices are making to our industry and to society. If you have examples of exceptional apprentices, particularly if they have been working on-site during the COVID-19 period, please contact press.office@citb.co.uk.
Brexit: Changes for Short Term Travel & Longer Term Stays
As an employer or an employee, it is worth understanding how certain provisions on mobility in the new EU-UK Trade Cooperation Agreement will affect business activities.
There have been many difficulties associated with the pandemic, but one silver lining is that the suppression of movement across the UK and parts of Europe allows more time to understand any changes arising from the UK-EU Trade deal regarding business travel.
ICAEW has put together links and resources to flag some of these changes to businesses. With all of the below, employers and employees are urged to seek expert advice, as there are other immigration considerations to understand, along with obligations such as social security.
Short-term travel
Previously, freedom of movement between the UK and the EU meant there was a limited process required for short-term business visits, aside from booking plane tickets and accommodation.
In many instances, the only change is to be sure you do not exceed the ‘90 days in any 180-day’ period limit and businesses will need to have a method to track this. Business meetings, for example, are allowed without a visa, as are attending conferences, but not directly selling to the public. As with any business travel, it pays to ensure you have your activity, accommodation and return flight details to hand to ensure any questions can be answered with ease, along with the standard six months on your passport and adequate travel and medical insurance.
What about longer-term stays?
The deal has not, as far as we know, changed any of the proposed plans regarding settled status. That is, if you are an EU national living in the UK on 31 December, you can apply for settled status. More details can be found here.
For UK nationals currently living in the EU, information can be found here, with guidance being given on a country-by-country basis. Both scenarios will have deadlines as to when this must be done by, so if this applies to you then check this as soon as possible.
Those looking to move to the UK after 31 December will need to go through the points-based immigration system, as EU citizens will be treated the same as non-EU citizens. More details can be found here. For UK nationals looking to move to the EU, again this is done on a country-by-country basis and you will need to check the relevant country embassy website.
If you are in an EU country with a visa or permit, your stay will apparently not count towards the 90-day visa-free limit as mentioned above.
Source: ICAEW. Click here to read the full article.
Letter from Minister Scully on COVID Testing for Hauliers
Paul Scully MP, wrote to businesses yesterday, about Covid testing for hauliers before leaving the UK for France. The letter urges businesses to discuss with any haulage companies that they work with, that they have plans in place, to ensure that hauliers have tested negative within 72 hours prior to travel.
Floorcovering Apprenticeship: National Training Federation for Wales (NTFW)
The National Training Federation for Wales (NTfW) Apprenticeships Team who are funded by Welsh Government have identified an increase in demand from employers in Wales for the Floorcovering Apprenticeship pathway.
NTFW are looking for further employer demand in order to develop provision. If you are interested in recruiting an apprentice floor layer, or if you require any further information relating to recruiting an apprentice in Wales please email Catherine.morris@ntfw.org with your expression of interest.
Please express your interest as soon as possible, but no later than Monday 15th February 2021.
Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, urges traders to ensure that they are fully ready with the new rules for trading with the European Union.
Traders are urged to ensure that they are fully ready with the new trading rules, as lorries expected at the GB-EU border, are expected to reach pre-Christmas levels this week. While compliance with the new rules remains high, an increase in border traffic raises the possibility of disruption.
Exporters must provide the right documentation to hauliers,
including export declarations and the extra certificates needed for products, like plant and animal products,
hauliers heading to Kent must get a negative Covid test and
obtain a Kent Access Permit before heading to port, or risk facing a fine and being turned away.
The Government published a press release detailing that businesses which make, sell or distribute chemicals into Great Britain will need to follow the UK’s new domestic chemicals regulations including UK REACH from 1 Jan 2021. The ‘Comply with UK REACH’ system will go live and can be used by business to fulfil their transitional provisions and create new registrations. Businesses will be able to use the Comply with UK REACH IT service to:
Validate existing GB-held EU registrations (‘Grandfathering’);
Submit downstream user import notifications (DUIN);
Submit new substance registrations;
Submit new product and process orientated research and development (PPORD) notifications.
Detailed UK REACH guidance is also available on the Health and Safety Executive website. The chemicals industry, including companies involved in construction products, employs over 100,000 people across the UK and accounts for over £30 billion of exports each year.
Updated links to guidance provided by BEIS is available in the Member Login area for CFA members on a range of topics such as haulage, data, accounting, and movement of goods.
Build UK have released an updated flowchart to provide guidance on various scenarios for if a worker has COVID‐19 or needs to self‐isolate. It has also been updated to reflect the latest Public Health England (PHE) guidance which requires employers to contact PHE if they identify five or more cases within 14 days.
New Site Operating Procedures for England Released
The Site Operating Procedures have been updated to reflect the latest Government guidance in England. The changes in Version 7 are minor, including updated guidance on self-isolation and shielding and the removal of the requirement to display a QR code in site canteens.
The new SOP can be found here. You may need to refresh your browser in order to view the updated document.
Lockdown Statement from the CFA President – Hamish MacGregor (MacGregor Flooring Company Limited)
Transmission rates are now the key and I cannot stress enough that whilst Construction and Contract Flooring remains open, we MUST focus on the Safe Operating Procedures (SOP) and how we apply them to play our part in maintaining the opportunity to work.
On Monday evening, 4 January, the Prime Minister announced that the country needed to enter a second national lockdown. This was supported across the four nations and became law in the early hours of Wednesday morning 6 January. Whilst our children must once again return to learning from home and we must generally make every effort to stay at home and avoid contact with other people, construction and contract flooring can currently continue.
The flooring supply chain, manufacturing, and distribution is also open for business under Covid-19 secure guidelines.
The CFA brings regular updates to members on Covid-19 through our blog including information for the devolved nations and links to the full government guidance. We also have useful templates such as a “Travel to Work Authorisation Letter” that may prove valuable if a worker is stopped by the police and asked to justify their journey. Our template has recently been reviewed and remains relevant. Hotels remain open to support the industry.
However, I must take this opportunity to stress that we cannot rest on our laurels and must make every effort to take all precautions possible to avoid catching this awful virus. Transmission rates are critical, and we have it on good authority that the Government is now monitoring construction very closely to ensure that it remains possible to operate safely.
In practical terms this means that we MUST follow the guidelines outlined in the Safe Operating Procedures (SOP). A new version (SOP V7) is expected by the end of this week and will be uploaded to the CFA website and blog here under “Quick Links.”
Face to face training has unfortunately been forced to close as one of the new measures to help protect the NHS and save lives. This has meant suspending training at FITA in Loughborough, and the FITA training centre in Kirkcaldy Scotland (provided by Forbo Flooring) also remains closed under local restrictions. Like many businesses, at the CFA we have also reviewed our own operating procedures and, whilst our offices remain open for a limited number of staff, working from home is being encouraged wherever possible.
Tradespeople working in people’s homes is still currently permitted in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but in Scotland this is limited to “essential” work only. Carpet shops must close, as must all showrooms, given that public browsing is not permitted. Transmission rates are now the key and I cannot stress enough that whilst Construction and Contract Flooring remains open, we MUST focus on the Safe Operating Procedures (SOP) and how we apply them to play our part in maintaining the opportunity to work.
This situation is not entirely in our hands, but we can make a difference. It is not going to be easy and the CFA will ensure we provide the latest relevant information and updates for our sector as we move through this new phase of the fight against Coronavirus.
If you have any questions or need support, please contact the CFA offices on 0115 941 1126 or email info@cfa.org.uk.
CICV Forum are continuing to liaise (with Construction Scotland) with the Scottish Government through the Construction Leadership Forum regarding Covid 19 restrictions. They have provided the following guidance for Scotland on the latest restrictions.
Highlight the importance of physical distancing when:
travelling to and from sites:
using site canteens and local shops/cafes (Rule moving distancing of 1m to 2m will become law)
Behaviour out with the workplace:
Posters to promote behaviour out with the workplace can be downloaded at:
CITB have provided the following update with regards to training.
England
In England, the lockdown will continue until further notice. Construction can proceed, though office-based staff are required to work from home.
The National Construction Colleges (NCCs) at Erith, Kent, and Bircham Newton, Norfolk, will be closed for face-to-face training until at least 22 February. A detailed summary of Government guidance for the lockdown in England is available here.
Scotland
In Scotland, the lockdown will continue until at least 31 January, when it will be reviewed. Construction is permitted to carry on, but only for essential work in people’s homes.
NCC Scotland at Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, will be closed for face-to-face training until at least 22 February.
The latest information on Scottish Government guidance for the lockdown is available here.
Wales
In Wales, the lockdown will continue until at least 18 January when it will be reviewed. Construction is also allowed to continue during this period.
The latest information on Welsh Government guidance for the lockdown is available here.
The UK has left the Single Market and Customs Union and it is essential that businesses make the necessary preparations to continue to trade with the EU.
The Border Operating Model has been updated to reflect the UK’s new Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU. The vast majority of the Border Operating Model remains unchanged. The main updates that have been made relate to:
how to claim preferential rates of duty by meeting Rules of Origin requirements,
the listing status for equines,
mutual recognition for AEO status, and
updated requirements for wine and organics.
Guidance now includes case studies that have been created to represent end-to-end scenarios that will happen between GB and EU, importing and exporting goods from January 2021. These show not just the journeys for standard goods, but also for journeys with additional requirements such as those using the Common Transit Convention or transporting controlled goods. This should still be used in conjunction with the Border Operating Model which will contain further details, particularly for controlled goods.
Latest Lockdown Restrictions – Commercial Flooring to Continue
England has entered a new lockdown with no confirmed end date, and people must work from home if they can. Construction sites, manufacturing and work in people’s homes can continue. Builders merchants and suppliers of building products are allowed to stay open and people can still go to property viewings and move home.
Scotlandhas entered a new lockdown until at least 31 January, and people must work from home if they can. Construction sites and essential work in people’s homes can continue.
Wales is in lockdown with 'Alert Level 4' restrictions in place until at least Friday 8 January when they will be reviewed. Construction sites and work in people’s homes can continue.
Northern Ireland is in lockdown with restrictions due to be reviewed on 23 January, although they are expected to remain in place until at least 6 February. Construction sites and work in people’s homes can continue.
The full guidance for England’s new lockdown restrictions can be found here.
Site Operating Procedures
The Site Operating Procedures will be updated later this week to reflect the latest Government guidance in England. As construction can continue during lockdown, the changes will be minor, including updated information on self‐isolation and shielding and the removal of the requirement to display a QR code in site canteens.
Sites across the UK are urged to remind the workforce of the importance of social distancing both in and outside of work to protect themselves and others.
CFA are in constant contact with government through our lobbying and umbrella organisations and we are currently seeking clarification in areas such as training. We will update members accordingly including the new site operating procedures as soon as further information is received. Please note that in some areas the .gov website information has not been updated recently (e.g. guidance on Closing certain businesses and venues in England – last updated 24 December) and it is therefore important to check you are considering the most recent guidance when making decisions.
There is new information from the Government about trading arrangements now that the Brexit transition period has come to an end.
The longer-format guidance on rules of origin in the UK-EU deal has now been published and can be found here.
With the signing of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement, the vast majority of traders moving goods between the UK and EU will avoid paying tariffs on that trade.
However in order to avoid paying tariffs, all traders must – from 1 January – ‘claim preference’ by meeting the relevant Rules of Origin (RoO) for their products and making a declaration to that effect.
Shortened guidance is available exclusively to CFA members via the Member Login Area.
You will have all seen the announcement about the creation of a new Tier 4 level of restrictions, which will apply in London and the South East of England.
The new rules impose greater restrictions on those living in Tier 4 areas, similar to those applying during March and April, although their main aim is to reduce social interactions between people living in different households. In terms of how these apply to the construction industry, the guidance specifies that:
Those living in Tier 4 areas may continue to travel to work, where work cannot be undertaken at home. This includes those working in other people’s homes:
Where people cannot do so - including, but not limited to, people who work in critical national infrastructure, construction, or manufacturing - they should continue to travel to their workplace. This is essential to keeping the country operating and supporting sectors and employers.
Where it is necessary for you to work in other people's homes - for example, for nannies, cleaners or tradespeople - you can do so. Otherwise, you should avoid meeting for work in a private home or garden, where COVID-19 Secure measures may not be in place.
It is also allowable to travel into a Tier 4 area from a Tier 1,2 or 3 area for work purposes, again where work cannot be undertaken at home;
Builder’s merchants and suppliers of building products can also remain open, provided they can do so safely (other types of retailer can offer click and collect or delivery services). The text of the new guidance is set out below:
Other businesses and venues are permitted to stay open, following COVID-19 Secure guidelines. This includes those providing essential goods and services, including:
Essential retail such as food shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, garden centres and Christmas tree retailers, building merchants and suppliers of building products and off-licences
We understand that showrooms for kitchens, bathrooms and tiles will be classed as non-essential retail and need to close and are in the process of confirming this.
CFA Members can access the latest Economic data from the Construction Products Association via the Member Login Area.
This includes an ONS Business Survey on Contractor Stockpiling (December 2020), a Bank of England Agent's summary, and Land Registry information. Further on in the report there is a summary of the existing information on the UK Economy.
The UK Government has announced that the furlough scheme has been extended until the end of April 2021 with the government continuing to contribute 80% towards wages.
Alongside this, Rishi Sunak has extended the business loan schemes until the end of March.
To help reduce the transmission of coronavirus on construction sites, Build UK has partnered with Eurofins to offer a comprehensive COVID‐19 testing service.
Testing is most effective when undertaken in line with a regular schedule; however, it does not replace the need for social distancing or compliance with the Site Operating Procedures.
Eurofins is offering both Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Lateral Flow testing on site at exclusive prices for Build UK members and, to discuss your requirements, please contact Eurofins.
The new Construction Playbook sets out 14 key policies, which will be mandated across the public sector, to deliver projects ‘faster, better and greener’. Embedding the Playbook within the industry should address many of the long‐standing issues that have held it back and lead to a more profitable, innovative and productive industry. The Playbook requires:
Greater certainty of the pipeline
Early supply chain involvement and a focus on outcomes
More standardisation
Better contract management
Investment in training and apprenticeships.
This is just the start of the journey towards a better industry and it will require a joined‐up approach between Government and industry. Build UK has a role to play in ensuring the Playbook is implemented and working as expected and taking action where required.
The new points‐based immigration system from 1 January 2021 is going to be extremely challenging for construction. There is confusion over the responsibilities of employers to undertake right to work checks, and the Government guidance is difficult to follow. In addition, an old version of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes is being used, which does not correctly recognise key construction roles, and a number of occupations are unsure if they meet the required skill (RQF3) level.
Build UK is making strong representations to the Home Office, highlighting the complexity of the system and the significant impact it is going to have on the availability of labour in the industry just when it is being asked to step up and deliver the Government’s ‘Build Build Build’ strategy.
The priority for all employers who expect to recruit from overseas from 1 January is to obtain a sponsor licence. They should also be encouraging the existing EU workforce to apply for settled status.
Following Build UK’s Smartcard Audit 2019, which identified the need for more cards carrying the CSCS logo to go smart, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has updated its Industry Card Schemes Recommendation. From 31 March 2022, all card schemes will be required to use smart technology, which has the capability to electronically check agreed information relevant to a cardholder, using a common interface, without the need to manually enter data.
CLC Task Force member Mark Reynolds said: “The need to validate and verify the training, qualification, skills and competence of construction workers has been brought into sharp focus since the Grenfell Tower Fire. The CLC is keen to see technology used across the industry to enable everyone to access and use the information we hold to make better decisions.”
Sites are asked to use the technology available to ensure cards are genuine and that workers have the appropriate qualifications and training for the occupation they are undertaking.
Changes to Safer Travel Guidance
As new local restriction tiers apply in England, the Government has updated its Safer travel guidance accordingly. Across all tiers, people should walk or cycle if they can, avoid the busiest routes and peak travel times, and avoid car sharing with anyone outside their household or support bubble.
People living in a High or Very High tier should reduce the number of journeys they make, and travel into and out of Very High areas should be avoided other than where necessary, such as for work. In the event of construction workers being stopped on journeys to and from sites, Build UK has produced an authorisation letter template which employers can use.
Carrying Forward Annual Leave
New legislation passed earlier this year enables workers to carry forward up to four weeks’ holiday into the next two leave years, where it has not been reasonably practicable for them to take it due to the effects of coronavirus. The Government has provided guidance on what is ‘reasonably practicable’, and it is unlikely that furloughed workers will need to carry forward holiday, as they will be able to take it during their furlough period.
Where a furloughed worker takes annual leave, the employer must calculate and pay the correct holiday pay in accordance with current legislation. Where this is above the pay the worker receives whilst on furlough, the employer must pay the difference. However, the employer can continue to claim the 80% grant from Government to cover most of the cost of holiday pay.
Materials Supply Report
Build UK has worked with the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) to publish a detailed report on the supply of construction materials after the end of the Brexit transition period. The report, which will be regularly updated, identifies which materials may be in short supply or have longer lead times.
Self‐Employment Grant
Applications have now opened for the third grant under the Self‐Employment Income Support Scheme. A business must have experienced a negative impact from coronavirus between 1 November 2020 and 31 January 2021 in order to submit a claim before the deadline of Friday 29 January.
Don't Forget...
The new Find a Tender Service (FTS) will be used to publish information on public sector contract opportunities in the UK from 31 December 2020 at 11:00pm. FTS, which will be free to use, will replace the Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) portal. Existing procurement portals such as Contracts Finder will still be available for certain notices, and account holders will be able to use the same login details to access FTS. There is a helpful 30‐minute CLC webinar demonstrating how the new FTS will work, and companies not already signed up are advised to register in preparation for its launch.
The CFA is running a couple of members-only Brexit information sessions in the coming weeks. The next meeting of the CFA Manufacturers Committee on Tuesday 8 December will hear a presentation from Duncan King of the Construction Products Association. He will be giving expert guidance on the new regime for CE, UKCA and UKNI marking, along with associated product testing and labelling.
This session will be repeated for all members (with tailored content of interest to the wider audience) on 19 Jan 2021. Both of these will be by Zoom and members can register for either session at meetings@cfa.org.uk and the relevant links will be supplied.
NEW BREXIT GUIDANCE FOR CONTRACT FLOORING SECTOR FROM GOVERNMENT
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, the Rt Hon Alok Sharma MP, has stressed again that there will be no extension to the Brexit transition period, which is due to end at the end of this month, and that business operations risk being interrupted for those companies that are not ready.
There will be new rules to follow from 1 January 2021 and businesses should act now to avoid their operations being interrupted when the transition period ends.
Information for the whole construction sector is available at Gov.uk. According to the Government, the most important actions which businesses should take now include:
Check the new rules on importing and exporting goods between the EU and Great Britain from 1 January 2021. Different rules will apply in Northern Ireland. Your business could face delays, disruption or administrative costs if you do not comply with new customs procedures from 1 January 2021.
Use Gov.uk to identify changes affecting manufactured goods, such as new marking requirements or approvals needed, to ensure your business is ready to sell them in the UK and EU.
If you are planning to recruit from overseas from 1 January 2021, you will need to register as a licensed visa sponsor. You may not legally be able to hire people from outside the UK if you do not have a licence. New employees from outside the UK will also need to meet new job, salary and language requirements. Irish citizens and those eligible under the EU Settlement Scheme are not affected.
If you are moving goods into, out of or through Northern Ireland, check the latest guidance. At the end of the transition period, the Northern Ireland Protocol comes into force. There will be special provisions which only apply in Northern Ireland so if you move goods into, out of or through Northern Ireland make sure you check thelatest guidance.
You also need to check with your suppliers and customers that they are taking the correct actions for their businesses.
The Government has a number of webinars on offer, which will walk you through the upcoming changes. These are available to watchon demand.
Funding Incentives for Scottish Apprenticeships Announced
The Scottish Government has announced two funding incentives for apprenticeships. Both incentives sit alongside other training support available.
The Apprenticeship Employer Grant (£15 million), supports the Government's aim of maximising apprenticeships whilst also enabling an increased number of employers to be able to take on an apprentice (or upskill existing staff).
The Pathway Apprenticeships Programme has been created for school-leavers up to 18-years-old facing fewer options due to the economic impact of COVID-19. This programme will provide work-based training, which will start by helping 1,200 young people in the first phase gain key skills in sectors like construction, business, IT, engineering and early years education. Pathways Apprenticeships will offer 26 weeks of training with a £100 weekly allowance. This can be extended for participants who are disabled or care experienced.
Additional to support for apprentices who have been made redundant as a result of the pandemic through the Scottish Government’s £10 million Adopt an Apprentice scheme.
GUIDANCE FOR CFA MANUFACTURER MEMBERS ON UKCA, UKNI & CE MARKINGS
The requirements for selling goods into different markets are changing from 1 January 2021. There are new product markings which need to be used dependent on where products will be sold: UKCA and UKNI.
1. Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021: If you are selling goods in the Northern Ireland market you may need both the CE mark and the new UKNI mark. Full guidance is available on the Gov.uk website.
2. Great Britain from 1 January 2021: For the rest of the UK, the new UKCA mark will replace the existing CE mark of conformity. Full guidance is available on the Gov.uk website.
3. EU from 1 January 2021: Products sold into the EU market, including the Republic of Ireland, will require a CE mark, and conformity assessment will need to be carried out by an EU-recognised conformity assessment body. UK bodies will no longer be able to do this unless there is an agreement to permit it. Full information is on the Gov.uk website.
CFA members can access further guidance in the Brexit Information section of the member login area.
Placing manufactured goods on the market in Great Britain from 1 January 2021:
If you have already placed your good on the UK market (or in an EU country) before 1 January 2021, you do not need to do anything new. These individual goods can continue to circulate on either market until they reach their end user and do not need to comply with the changes that take effect from 1 January 2021.
A good is ‘placed on the market’ when a written or verbal agreement (or offer of an agreement) to transfer ownership or possession or other rights in the product. This does not require physical transfer of the good.
You can usually provide proof of placing on the market on the basis of any relevant document ordinarily used in business transactions, including:
contracts of sale concerning goods which have already been manufactured and meet the legal requirements
invoices
documents concerning the shipping of goods for distribution
The relevant economic operator (whether manufacturer, importer or distributor) bears the burden of proof for demonstrating that the good was placed on the market before 1 January 2021.
Placing manufactured goods on the market in Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021:
If you have already placed an individual product on the EU or the UK market (either in Northern Ireland or Great Britain) before 1 January 2021, you do not need to do anything new. These individual goods can continue to circulate on either market until they reach their end user and do not need to comply with the changes that take effect from 1 January 2021.
A good is ‘placed on the market’ when a written or verbal agreement (or offer of an agreement) to transfer ownership or possession or other rights in the product. This does not require physical transfer of the good.
You can usually provide proof of placing on the market on the basis of any relevant document ordinarily used in business transactions, including:
contracts of sale concerning goods which have already been manufactured and meet the legal requirements
invoices
documents concerning the shipping of goods for distribution
The relevant economic operator (whether manufacturer, importer or distributor) bears the burden of proof for demonstrating that the good was placed on the market before 1 January 2021.
Preferential tariffs continue for eligible developing countries:
The trade preference scheme will cover any eligible countries that do not have their existing trade agreements transitioned into a new agreement with the UK.
The UK imported approximately £8 billion-worth of textiles and apparel products from eligible countries last year. The Government is planning on improving the scheme to better support developing countries – more details will be announced in 2021.
The import rates and customs procedure are now on gov.uk.
British importers will continue to pay zero or reduced tariffs on everyday goods such as clothing and vegetables from the world’s poorest countries now the UK has left the EU, Liz Truss will announce today (Tuesday 10 November).
Trading with developing nations from 1 January 2021:
Trade preferences reduce or remove rates of duty (tariffs) on imports from eligible developing countries into the UK.
From 1 January 2021, eligible developing countries will be able to get trade preferences through the UK Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP).
The UK GSP will initially provide trade preferences to the same countries as the EU GSP.
The UK GSP will have 3 frameworks:
Least Developed Countries Framework
General Framework
Enhanced Framework
These frameworks replicate the market access provided by the EU’s GSP.
Public Procurement Policy
Public-sector procurement from 1 January 2021
From 1 January 2021 a new e-notification service called Find a Tender will be used to post and view public sector procurement notices.
Advice for Contracting Authorities
You will need to publish public procurement notices through Find a Tender. This service will go live on 1 January 2021. It will replace the requirement to publish notices in the Official Journal of the European Union.
If you use a third party ‘eSender’ to manage your procurement notices, you will be able to continue to use them provided that they have confirmed they can publish notices to Find a Tender.
The following eSenders have completed this work:
Adam
ADB (UK) Limited
Atamis Limited
BiP Solutions
European Dynamics
EU Supply
In-Tend Ltd
Jaggaer
Proactis Tenders Ltd (part of Proactis)
Proactis
Sourcedogg
Wax Digital
If you do not use an eSender and/or intend to publish notices directly to Find a Tender, you will need to register with the service. This can be done now by creating a buyer’s account on Contracts Finder. All Contracts Finder accounts will automatically be given access to publish notices on Find a Tender.
LATEST GOVERNMENT GUIDANCE CONFIRMS BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR CONTRACT FLOORING SECTOR
The Government has added further guidance on the closure of non-essential businesses during the current lockdown in England.
This confirms that there are no changes regarding the requirements affecting construction sites, manufacturers, storage & distribution facilities and builders merchants without showrooms.
These sectors should continue to work, following best practice procedures for reducing the spread of the virus. These include the latest version of the Site Operating Procedures and the Branch Operating Guidelines.
The full updated guidance is here and key points which may be useful are:
It is for each business to assess whether they are a business required to close having considered the guidance and Regulations.
Hardware stores and builders merchants (such as tools, timber, paint, plumbing and glass) can remain open. Where these stores contain showrooms in distinct sections, the showroom area should be closed to the public.
Showrooms for products used in homes, including bathrooms, kitchens and glazing should be closed to the public.
All businesses may continue to offer delivery and click and collect services (where items are pre-ordered and collected without entering the premises). People can also leave home to collect or return orders from these businesses.
Premises are not closed to staff or other authorised personnel needed to maintain them, secure them, or to prepare them to reopen.
Tradespersons who need to visit other people’s homes for their work can continue to do so and should follow the safer working guidance.
After the recent government announcement, Recofloor want to reassure you that the Recofloor Collection Service remains active for all our members and you can continue to raise collections and request bags.
Please note that the last day to place a Recofloor collection request to guarantee a collection before Christmas is Wednesday 9th December 2020*. After this date, you can still order bags and collections, but deliveries and collections may take place in January 2021.
*This date may change at any time in line with government advice and Public Health England guidelines, so please continue to monitor our Twitter account and website for the most up to date information.
The Construction Talent Retention Scheme (TRS) has already saved industry more than £250,000 in recruitment costs just months after launch.
Since it was introduced in the summer the TRS has been helping UK construction employers to find new candidates, and allowing those who have lost their jobs to find new employment in the sector.
We are now starting to see positions being filled via the TRS, with resulting savings for employers by using the free system. This number will only grow as more and more employers sign up to use the system.
Midlands Employers
The East and West Midlands continues to see the highest demand from candidates to use the TRS. It is estimated as many as 700 individuals registered with the system would be keen on new roles in the Midlands. As such, we are keen to hear from employers in the region that are looking to recruit.
Statistics
As of 30 October 2020 the Construction Talent Retention Scheme has:
• 730 registered employers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland;
• 75 companies have live vacancies;
• There are 822 live vacancies;
• 86% of live vacancies are in England, 6% in Scotland, 4% in Wales; 1% in Northern Ireland and 2% are international. Of those in England, 32% are in London and the South East;
• 1,049 individuals have registered;
• 69% of registered companies are SMEs; 16% have over 1,000 employees;
• 45% of all live vacancies are posted by SMEs;
• There have been 2,578 hits on individuals’ profiles by employers; 2,951 vacancies have been viewed by individuals;
• 50% of companies registered are contractors; 15% consultants; 5% manufacturers; 6% building merchants; and 5% home builders;
• The largest number of vacancies are in Construction & Project Management and Design & Engineering;
• 28% of individuals are looking for roles in Construction & Project Management, 21% in Design & Engineering, 14% in Trade & Manual and 8% in Commercial.
COMMERCIAL FLOOR LAYING AND ITS SUPPLY CHAIN TO CONTINUE WORKING DURING LOCKDOWN
The CFA believes it should be business as usual for the contract flooring sector, as England goes into its second national lockdown.
In a letter to the construction industry, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) reminded us: “The Prime Minister has explicitly said that construction and manufacturing should continue. The latest Government guidance has reiterated this, and that workers in these industries should continue to travel to work and attend their workplace, including where this involves working in other people’s homes.”
General guidance can be found on the Government website at:
“The latest lockdown guidance clearly directs the contract flooring sector and our supply chain to remain open. We have spoken to a number of contractors, manufacturers and distributors across membership in the last few days, and they confirm that it is business as usual with Covid-safe work practices in operation wherever necessary” says Hamish MacGregor, Chairman of MacGregor Flooring and President of the CFA. “This is first and foremost about people being safe, but it is also about allowing the sector to remain active, protecting jobs and enabling the entire contract flooring supply chain to play its part in securing a strong and viable construction sector, which is generally recognised to be a key part of the overall economic recovery.”
Construction News are running a short survey to help better understand experiences with industry payment practices. You don’t need to be an expert to contribute – please just take five minutes to share your thoughts on the topic.
The survey will help us understand the consequences of late payment, and highlight the changes that businesses would like to see to current practices and whether legislation around reporting payment terms and project bank accounts have made an impact.
Construction and flooring sectors remain active despite the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis
The Government’s commitment to keeping construction sites open despite second wave COVID-19 restrictions is reassuring news for the sector, our members and the flooring industry as a whole, with evidence of some confidence returning.
Back in March, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said construction sites were allowed to remain open with social distancing measures. This is still the case, despite the changing landscape of regional and national lockdowns.
Thanks to government spending on infrastructure, contract awards are returning, and the overall picture is looking brighter.
Latest industry analysis by Barbour ABI shows the total value of construction contract awards in September 2020 was £5.4 billion based on a three-month rolling average. This is 21.2% higher than for August and is also 13.8% higher than September 2019.
Elsewhere, in its Autumn Scenarios forecast, the Construction Products Association (CPA) predicts that output could grow by 13.5% next year. Activity is being powered by pent-up demand in private housing and the completion of refurbishment work that stopped when sites were closed following lockdown in March.
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is urging companies to carry out a number of key actions as the UK counts down to its new trading relationship with the EU after 31 December.
These are the actions that companies need to take to be ready for 1 January 2021:
1. Check the new rules on importing and exporting goods between the EU and Great Britain from 1 January 2021.
Your business could face delays, disruption or administrative costs if you do not comply with new customs procedures from 1 January 2021.
More information about importing goods into the UK is available here.
2. Familiarise yourself with the UK’s new trade remedies process on GOV.UK.
From 1 January 2021, if you think your business has been injured by unfair import practices, you can submit an application to the UK’s new trade remedies system.
3. Use GOV.UK guidance to understand trading arrangements for non-EU countries from 1 January 2021.
Your business may face disruption when trading goods between the UK and the rest of the world if you are not aware of trading arrangements with non-EU countries from 1 January 2021.
Check if the UK has negotiated a trade agreement with the country you will be trading with, and learn about agreements still under discussion.
Join a webinar
BEIS is holding a series of webinars this month to help businesses understand the important actions they need to take to be ready by the end of the transition period. Webinars are free and, depending on the topic being covered, take between 45-90 minutes. They will cover a variety of issues.
To register for upcoming webinars, or to watch previous sector-specific webinars on demand, visit bit.ly/UKTwebinar
More information is also available on the www.gov.uk/transition checker tool, where you can also sign up for email updates.
Following the announcement of the four‐week lockdown in England from this Thursday 5 November until Wednesday 2 December, Co‐Chair of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Andy Mitchell has written an open letter to the industry emphasising the call for the whole construction supply chain to remain open.
Sites should ensure they are complying with the Site Operating Procedures ‐ Version 6, which includes the following subject to any additional local restrictions:
Site canteens can remain open
Workers should try not to share a vehicle with those outside their household or support bubble, but where this is necessary social distancing must be followed
Workers should try to avoid using public transport during peak times of 05:45 ‐ 8:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30.
In the event of workers being stopped on journeys to and from sites, Build UK has produced an authorisation letter template for employers which may be helpful.
Self‐Employed Support
The Chancellor has announced that the grant available under the Self‐Employed Income Support Scheme will be increased to 80% of trading profits for the month of November. This means the total grant available for the period from 1 November to 31 January will equate to 55% of trading profits, capped at £5,160.
The CFA’s key message for our sector is that construction, which includes contract flooring work, can continue in all four nations of the UK.
Sites are however advised to review their social distancing measures and remind all workers of the importance of complying with the Version 6 of the Site Operating Procedures whilst on site. In order to protect colleagues, they should also comply with the latest regulations, which require people to stay at home as far as possible and not mix with other households.
Build UK has commented that the fact that construction is permitted to continue is testament to the industry’s response to the pandemic so far. In order to keep sites open, it is important therefore to comply with the rules on social distancing and the wearing of masks.
Workers are permitted to travel for work and hotels can remain open to provide accommodation for workers. Those who have to find hotel accommodation in the course of their work should be aware that some hotels may close due to a reduction in demand.
Build UK has produced an authorisation letter template for employers in the event of workers being stopped on journeys to and from sites anywhere in the UK.
Wales is under its own ‘firebreak’ lockdown until Monday 9 November 00:01am.
Northern Ireland has its own restrictions in place until Friday 13 November.
What to do if a worker develops symptoms
To help employers and work colleagues respond quickly and consistently, Build UK has published an easy to follow flowchart on the actions to take if a worker develops COVID- 19 symptoms, receives a positive test result, or has to self- isolate.
Furlough Scheme Extended
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended for one month to the end of November, with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500. Under the extended scheme, employers will only have to pay National Insurance and pension contributions, with the Government paying the full 80% of wages, and details of how to claim will be available shortly. For an employee to be eligible they need to have been on a payroll run before 23:59 on 30 October 2020.
Employers who were considering terminating contracts of employment now have the option of leaving the employee on furlough for the month of November.
Mortgage holidays will continue.
The Job Support Scheme, which was due to start on 1 November, has been postponed until the Job Retention Scheme ends.
Businesses required to close in England due to local or national restrictions will be eligible for grants of up to £3000.
The grant available under the Self‐Employed Income Support Scheme from 1 November 2020 until 31 January 2021 has already been doubled to 40% of average monthly trading profits, capped at £3,750. The level of the second grant covering 1 February until 30 April 2021 will be confirmed in due course.
Materials Shortages
Concern has been expressed about the possibility of materials shortages, as a result of the current situation. The CFA is setting up a new section on its LinkedIn forum where members can post requests for help in sourcing generic material requirements (e.g. underlay, gripper, or floor coverings), which hopefully will be of benefit to all. Please note this page should not be used for specific complaints or customer services issues. Communications regarding other issues, apart from seeking materials should be directed towards the appropriate manufacturer or distributor. The page may also continue to be used for sharing other help and best practice directly between members of the flooring industry.
CPA Webinar: Rethinking the sector and the Role of Mergers & Acquisitions
Source - CPA
After a decade of rising M&A activity and valuations in the construction products sector, what can we expect next and what should businesses be thinking about to position for the future? Join our webinar in partnership with BDO’s Building Products & Services group to learn more about building resilience and rethinking business strategy and the role of M&A. An analysis of recent transactions provides an interesting perspective and we share our predictions for the sector.
Includes the opportunity for Q&A with CPA's expert panel.
CFA members are eligible to attend.
Speakers: Peter Caplehorn (Chief Executive, CPA), John Stephan &
Mithun Patel (BDO LLP)
Constructing Excellence (CE) are holding a workshop for manufacturers about the Procuring for Value Toolkit that has been developed by the government-funded Construction Innovation Hub (CIH). Constructing Excellence has now been commissioned to run a series of engagement workshops across the industry to explore perceived and actual barriers that might prevent the adoption of such value-based delivery models. The workshop will focus specifically on contracts and insurances.
CE will run this 2 hour workshop for manufacturers specifically. At a later date they may follow up with a second workshop and 1:1 interviews.
Carpet Recycling UK: Working with the supply chain to find the right carpet waste supply
Source - Carpet Recycling UK
Working with the supply chain to find the right carpet waste supply
Carpet Recycling UK missed catching up with retailers and flooring suppliers at this year’s cancelled exhibitions.
We would normally attend the two-day Buying Groups National Flooring Show at Cranmore Park in May, talking to the Retail Buying Groups and their members as well as the exhibitors who normally include key manufacturers attending to display their latest ranges.
In addition, we have missed the three-day Flooring Show in Harrogate which has now been postponed until September 2021.
Attending the exhibitions allows us to talk to companies about their carpet waste, their products and services, to follow up and advise on outlets and sustainability in the design of carpets and textile flooring. One of our key roles is to demonstrate take back and recycling of products like carpet offcuts which can be harnessed and used again in manufacturers’ processes.
Carpet Recycling UK’s recycling members are looking for carpet waste for their operations, we have updated the directory of reuse and recycling members – you can find the latest director of specialist carpet and carpet tile recyclers by visiting the website.
Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border - A New GOV.UK Web Service
As part of plans to help hauliers and HGV drivers understand if they are carrying the right documentation, the UK Government is developing a new web service, known as “Check an HGV is Ready to Cross the Border” (the Service) for the Roll on Roll off (RoRo) Freight Industry. For the end of the transition period, the Service will be introduced for RoRo freight leaving GB for the EU and will help ensure that only vehicles carrying the correct customs and import/export documentation for the EU’s import controls travel to the ports.
Following a public consultation, the UK Government intends to make the use of the web service a legal requirement for HGVs over 7.5 tonnes that are intending to travel outbound from GB via the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel. This means that the service will issue a Kent Access Permit digitally for every HGV for which the required information has been successfully provided.
This demo (https://check-an-hgv-is-ready-to-cross-the-border-demo.fbplatform.co.uk) is to let freight industry users see how the service will look, what questions it will ask, and what information it will provide. Please note that permits generated from the preview site will not be valid for use when travelling to Port of Dover or Eurotunnel. While the demo closely resembles the service that will go live on gov.uk, the questions for determining an HGV’s border readiness are not exhaustive and are meant only to support an assessment of readiness for EU import controls.
The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the housing market and housebuilding has been particularly stark. In comparison to other construction sectors, housing was particularly affected by lockdown measures and the current recovery has been boosted by favourable policy measures.
This webinar, hosted by the CPA’s Senior Economist, Rebecca Larkin, explores developments in private and public sector housing since the coronavirus lockdown, the latest construction and market data and the outlook for the year ahead based on our Autumn Scenarios.
The webinar is available for CFA members to access.
Source - Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy
Upcoming Webinar:
DIT webinar on 4 November for Exporters who will be trading both with EU and Non-EU countries from 1 Jan 2021. You can find more information and register through this link.
Information for your EU registered/based trading partners: Trade with the UK from January 2021: prepare your EU business: Sections updated today on buying or selling goods, VAT, personal data and providing services and added new information on importing animal products, importing and exporting plant products, goods, legal professions, business activity and copyright.
New Site Operating Procedures Now Available
The Site Operating Procedures have been updated to reflect recent changes in Government guidance. Whilst there are no significant changes to social distancing requirements on sites, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has taken the opportunity to streamline the Site Operating Procedures whilst maintaining the familiar format.
Updated guidance on shielding, self‐isolation, testing and what to do if a worker develops COVID‐19 symptoms or has to self‐isolate, including a link to Build UK’s flowchart
Confirmation that canteens serving food must display an NHS QR Code
The wording has been reviewed throughout to reflect the fact that social distancing is no longer exceptional, and that in some key areas Government has published more detailed guidance or updated terminology.
Cases of coronavirus are increasing across all four nations, and sites are urged to remind the workforce of the importance of social distancing outside of work, in order to protect themselves and others and help keep construction sites open.
Please note that you may need to refresh your browser cache in order to view the latest version of the Site Operating Procedures by pressing Ctrl+Shift+R (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+R (Mac).
Wales ‘Fire Break’ Lockdown
Restrictions are being increased across the four nations to tackle the second wave of coronavirus, and First Minister Mark Drakeford has announced a national lockdown in Wales from Friday 23 October until Monday 9 November. This will affect tradespeople working inside people’s homes, and the Welsh Government has stated in its Frequently Asked Questions that “work carried out inside other people’s homes can only take place if it is urgent or to repair a fault which poses a direct risk to people’s safety”. It goes on to say that work that is already underway cannot be completed “unless the work is urgent or it would be unsafe to leave the work incomplete”.
Construction sites and work outside or in unoccupied homes can continue and these workers should still travel to work. In the event of workers being stopped on journeys to and from sites, Build UK has produced an authorisation letter template for employers which may be helpful.
Brexit Update
With the Prime Minister’s deadline for Brexit negotiations with the EU having now passed, Build UK has joined the CBI and 71 other organisations to issue a joint statement calling for a trade agreement to be reached and reiterating the dangers of ‘no deal’ for businesses.
The Government is urging businesses to prepare for the end of the transition period, and the CLC is publishing guidance on a range of issues, including data protection and GDPR, the new immigration system, and the movement of goods and materials. Businesses can use the Government’s checker tool to confirm exactly what they need to do, and there is a free construction webinar on Wednesday 28 October at 11:00am which will provide further sector‐specific information.
CPA have published their Construction Scenarios (Autumn 2020) document which outlines key statistics and scenarios with relation to the construction industry as a whole. In the CPA’s main construction scenario, construction output is anticipated to fall by 14.5% overall in 2020 before rising by 13.5% in 2021.
CPA have also published a Brexit Update presentation that includes an updated ‘No Deal’ scenario for the UK economy and construction industry.
Both of these documents are available to CFA members in the Member Area.
There will also be a CPA members webinar covering the scenarios on Wednesday 21 October 2020 at 11.00. To register for the webinar click here.
Carpet Recycling UK: Sustained interest in reuse/recycling despite decline in landfill diversion
Source - Carpet Recycling UK
Flooring industry support for carpet waste reuse and recycling opportunities in the UK continues to rise, despite an overall 10% decrease in the total amount of carpet waste identified and recorded in 2019 compared to 2018, according to Carpet Recycling UK’s latest achievements report.
Since its formation in 2007, the not-for-profit, industry-led membership association has enabled both members and non-members to divert around 1.25 million tonnes of carpet waste otherwise destined for landfill.
Creating further landfill diversion solutions for carpet waste reinforces Carpet Recycling UK as the only independent ‘go-to’ body for organisations that want to drive forward sustainability and circular economy principles in the carpet/flooring sector.
CRUK’s latest data for 2019 reveals the volume of carpet waste diverted from landfill in the UK was 158,577 tonnes (175,252 tonnes in 2018), with the majority being post-consumer broadloom carpets compared to carpet tiles or post-manufacture waste. Material sent to the energy from waste sector as RDF/SRF had declined in line with other reports in that sector.
However, CRUK’s figures show sustained strong interest from across the supply chain in initiatives to reuse and recycle carpet waste where possible, with encouraging rises in activity in the following areas:
Carpet tiles reuse has more than doubled
Use in carpet fibre recovery was up by more than 50%
Plastics recycling (from synthetic fibres) went up by just under 50%
Small increase in surfaces material for the equestrian market
660 enquiries from across the supply chain in 2019, compared to 624 in 2018
More than 150 enquiries from flooring suppliers in 2019, versus 130 in 2018
Today’s email reflects on the importance of looking after our mental health and highlights the new features added to The Lighthouse Club’s free app, as well as a link to share your views on the CITB Grants Scheme.
It continues to be an unsettling time with the increasing COVID-19 infection rates resulting in the new three-tier lockdown system in England, introduced by the UK Government earlier this week. It’s evident that we need to do all we can to minimise the risk of infection, not only in our home lives but also at work and within our industry. I would like to remind you of our COVID-19 site safety checklists and forms, which we are continually reviewing to ensure they reflect the current requirements for Site Operating Procedures.
New app features to support industry wellbeing
Last Saturday was World Mental Health Day, and with such major challenges and uncertainty impacting everyone’s way of life to some extent this year, the focus was on ‘mental health for all’. This reinforces the importance of looking out for loved ones, but also acts as a reminder to take time out to consider your own mental wellbeing.
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity recently launched a free helpline app, which encourages people to seek guidance and information, while providing a discreet platform for them to do so. Following employers’ feedback, the app has since been upgraded with new features and tools to support financial wellbeing. Working in partnership with ‘nudge’, a financial wellbeing platform, the app reminds users when to take financial action, helps with budgeting, and provides content to boost financial knowledge. You can download the app here.
Your views on the CITB Grants Scheme matter
We have asked for your feedback throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, to enable us to support the construction industry where it matters most and to shape the work we do. Now more than ever your views are helping us ensure limited funds are directed to where they can make the most difference for you.
As part of our review of the support we offer, we will be inviting organisations and their employees to share their views on training and the Grants Scheme. Your feedback matters and this is your opportunity to help us develop what we offer in the future. Please complete the feedback form, which should take no longer than 10 minutes, by 5pm on 2 November 2020.
Constructing Excellence (CE) are holding a workshop for manufacturers about the Procuring for Value Toolkit that has been developed by the government-funded Construction Innovation Hub (CIH). Constructing Excellence has now been commissioned to run a series of engagement workshops across the industry to explore perceived and actual barriers that might prevent the adoption of such value-based delivery models. The workshop will focus specifically on contracts and insurances.
CE will run this 2 hour workshop for manufacturers specifically. At a later date they may follow up with a second workshop and 1:1 interviews.
New standards, designed to toughen up the Prompt Payment Code, are being explored by the government.
Getting businesses to commit to paying smaller firms within 30 days and adding additional payment measures are two of the changes being considered. The alterations are being explored via a consultation launched by the Small Business Commissioner.
At present, firms signed up to the code must pay 95 per cent of invoices in 60 days. The commissioner has asked for views on introducing a second criteria that firms pay 95 per cent of invoices from small businesses within 30 days.
Last year a string of large contractors, including Balfour Beatty, Kier and Laing O’Rourke, were suspended from the code after failing to pay 95 per cent of their invoices inside a 60-day period. All have since been reinstated after improving their payment times.
The Small Business Commissioner is also considering adding new measures to the compliance criteria, including the percentage of invoices paid to terms and the average time taken to pay invoices. Respondents are being asked how long businesses should be given to comply with any new measures.
Creating a prompt payment logo that compliant firms can use and display is also being considered.
The commissioner is also asking for views on whether some of its current approaches should continue, such as publishing information about suspensions and removals and whether the SBC should be able to approach firms it is told are not complying with the code.
The survey is part of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy’s plan to strengthen the code. Last year saw the department transfer the administration for the code from the Chartered Institute of Credit Management to the Small Business Commissioner. The department said the consultation on new measures represented the next step in making the code more effective.
The consultation closes on Friday. You can complete the survey here.
Details on new local COVID Alert Levels set out by the Prime Minister
On the 12 October the Prime Minister announced how the government will further simplify and standardise local rules by introducing a three tiered system of local COVID Alert Levels in England. There are different restrictions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
More information on local COVID alert levels in England is available, alongside guidance on the restrictions in place which includes information for businesses and venues, and going to work:
Test and Trace Support Payment scheme: claiming financial support: If you have been contacted by NHS Test and Trace and told to self-isolate on or after 28 September 2020, you’re under a legal obligation to do so, and could be eligible for a £500 Test and Trace Support Payment. This guidance sets out who can claim support and explains how to apply.
UPDATED guidance:
Maintaining records of staff, customers and visitors to support NHS Test and Trace: Guidance has been updated to add further clarification on the venues in scope of the policy. Guidance has also been added for hospitality venues on how to verify whether an individual has checked in on the NHS COVID-19 app.
The CPA is hosting a webinar on its upcoming Construction Industry Scenarios 2020-21 - Autumn 2020 Edition, which will be published next week. The webinar will be covering the UK economy this year and next, the latest construction data and our main construction scenario for this year and next, focusing on how things have changed since the Summer Scenarios as well as the key issues in the largest construction sectors for 2020 and 2021.
CFA members are eligible to attend the webinar, which will be hosted by CPA Economics Director, Professor Noble Francis.
The aim of this newsletter is to serve the users of the TRS, and to publicise the TRS to the widest possible audience at all levels of UK construction. If you have any questions, comments, or would like to submit a case study of how using the TRS has benefited you or your business, please get in touch using the e-mail address clcsupport@trs-system.co.uk.
Employers - please complete your profiles
Thank you for your continuing support for the Construction Talent Retention Scheme. It is brilliant to have so many employers taking part in the scheme, advertising new roles to help keep vital talent in the sector, while also using the system to scout for potential candidates. In order to maximise the potential of your engagement with the scheme, it is essential that all users fully complete their employer profile in the system. This will ensure that you can take advantage of all of the capability of the TRS and help us to promote your business. If you would like any help to complete your profile please contact clcsupport@trs-system.co.uk.
Scout potential talent with TRS
We are seeing great use of the TRS by employers to advertise vacancies. But there is also growth in the number of employers who are using the system to make direct approaches to workers with key skills and capabilities. The TRS offers the ability to search all those candidates that are registered on the system for key capabilities and competences helping employers to target specific needs of any given recruitment. If you would like help to take advantage of this functionality, please contact the TRS team on clcsupport@trs-system.co.uk.
Statistics
As of 9 October 2020 the Construction Talent Retention Scheme has:
714 registered employers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland;
56 companies have live vacancies;
There are 639 live vacancies;
86% of live vacancies are in England, 6% in Scotland, 5% in Wales; 1% in Northern Ireland and 2% are international. Of those in England, 33% are in London and the South East.
904 individuals have registered;
76% of companies registered are SMEs; 9% have over 1,000 employees;
48% of all live vacancies are posted by SMEs;
51% of companies registered are contractors; 15% consultants; 5% manufacturers; 5% building merchants; and 5% home builders;
The largest number of vacancies are in Construction & Project Management and Design & Engineering.
Watch out for TRS on radio and LinkedIn
As part of work to promote the talent retention scheme this month will see the roll out of advertising for the system on both radio and LinkedIn. The communications team for the Talent Retention Scheme have been putting together targeted ads focusing on both employers and candidates to boost usage of the system. We would welcome your feedback on the ads. It is expected that this will be the first wave in a campaign that will continue through to the end of the year and into the beginning of 2021.
Job Support Scheme expanded to firms required to close due to Covid restrictions
The Job Support Scheme (JSS) will be expanded to support businesses across the UK required to close their premises due to coronavirus restrictions.
This scheme will cover businesses that, as a result of restrictions set by one or more of the four governments in the UK, are legally required to close their premises. This includes businesses that are required to provide only delivery and collection services from their premises, or food and drink outdoors from their premises.
The government will support eligible businesses by paying two thirds of each employees’ salary (or 67%), up to a maximum of £2,100 a month.
Under the scheme, employers will not be required to contribute towards wages and only asked to cover NICS and pension contributions. Businesses will only be eligible to claim the grant while they are subject to restrictions and employees must be off work for a minimum of seven consecutive days.
The scheme will begin on 1 November and will be available for six months, with a review point in January.
In line with the rest of the JSS, payments to businesses will be made in arrears, via a HMRC claims service that will be available from early December. Employees of firms that have been legally closed in the period before 1 November are eligible for the CJRS.
The scheme is UK wide and the UK Government will work with the devolved administrations to ensure the scheme operates effectively across all four nations.
Further guidance on the scheme will be set out by HMRC in due course.
In addition to expansion of the JSS, the government is increasing the cash grants to businesses in England shut in local lockdowns to support with fixed costs. These grants will be linked to rateable values, with up to £3,000 per month payable every two weeks, compared to the up to £1,500 every three weeks which was available previously.
The devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will benefit from a £1.3 billion increase to their guaranteed funding for 2020-21 - allowing them to continue their response to Covid-19 including through similar measures if they wish.
Job Retention Bonus: Further information has been published on how businesses can claim the government’s Job Retention Bonus. Check your eligibility and find out how to apply.
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme grant extension: The grant is being extended from 1 November 2020. Find out here if you are eligible and how much you can get. Guidance is available on how HMRC will work out your trading profits and non-trading income if you're self-employed or a member of a partnership and have been adversely affected by coronavirus. A video on how to claim the second grant step-by-step is also available.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: 30 November 2020 is the last day you can submit claims for periods ending on or before 31 October 2020. After this date you will not be able to submit any further claims or add to existing claims. More here.
Cyber safety guide to help small businesses work securely online: The National Cyber Security Centre’s re-launched Small Business Guide sets out five key areas for businesses to help improve their cyber security. The new-look guidance arrives at a time when many organisations have moved their operations online due to the coronavirus pandemic. It highlights accessible and actionable steps to take which have little to no cost. There is also guidance that helps small to medium sized organisations prepare their response to and plan their recovery from a cyber incident.
New ‘Three Tier’ Lockdown System Introduced
The Prime Minister has announced further restrictions to tackle the second wave of coronavirus, which will be implemented through a new three‐tier local COVID alert system in England from tomorrow (14 October). Further guidance is expected on the specific detail of the three alert levels ‐ Medium, High and Very High ‐ however, there does not appear to be any impact on construction activities, including tradespeople working in people’s homes, unless specifically introduced by local authorities.
There have been numerous changes to Government guidance in recent weeks, and the Site Operating Procedures are being reviewed to ensure that they are up to date and reflect the current requirements. We do not anticipate any significant changes and construction sites of all sizes should continue to follow the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ principles.
Applying for the Kickstart Scheme
The Government has introduced the Kickstart Scheme to create six‐month work placements for 16 to 24‐year olds who are on Universal Credit and deemed to be at risk of long term unemployment. Placements must start before 31 December 2021 and funding is available to cover 100% of the relevant National Minimum Wage for 25 hours a week, plus National Insurance and pension contributions. Employers creating 30 or more job placements can apply directly, whilst those with fewer than 30 must partner with other businesses and there is now a list of Kickstart gateways which can apply on their behalf.
COVID‐19 Support from CITB
CITB has extended the grace period for expired Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and Site Supervisors’ Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) certificates until 30 November 2020. Workers whose certificates expired after 15 March 2020 now have until this date to successfully complete the relevant refresher course; if a certificate is not renewed in time, the full course will need to be completed.
The Skills and Training Fund, which was expanded to include skill retention and sustainability projects during the coronavirus pandemic, will revert to supporting productivity and innovation projects only from 1 December 2020. There is detailed guidance for both small and micro‐sized and medium‐sized businesses on how to apply.
What to do if a Worker has COVID‐19
Keeping sites open and maintaining output requires projects to respond quickly in the event of workers displaying symptoms of coronavirus and any subsequent outbreaks of infection. To help the industry, Build UK has published an easy to follow flowchart on the actions a company or site should take if a worker develops COVID‐19 symptoms, receives a positive test result, or has to self‐isolate due to either NHS Test and Trace or a member of their household or support bubble developing symptoms or testing positive.
Claiming the Job Retention Bonus
The Government has published guidance for employers to check whether they are eligible to claim the Job Retention Bonus. This is a one‐off taxable payment of £1,000 for each eligible employee that an employer has furloughed and kept continuously employed until at least 31 January 2021. Employers will be able to claim the bonus between 15 February and 31 March 2021, after they submit PAYE information for the period to 5 February 2021, and details of the online claim service will be made available by the end of January.
Canteen Requirements Face coverings must now be worn in canteens except when seated at a table to eat or drink. A canteen is a place that serves food; if workers are consuming their own food and drink, it would be classed as a rest area and face coverings should be worn if it is an enclosed space where social distancing isn’t always possible and workers come into contact with others they do not normally meet.
CITB Levy Return
CITB Levy registered employers should have now received their 2020 Levy Return, covering 6 April 2019 ‐ 5 April 2020, which must be completed and submitted by 30 November 2020. Failure to submit the Levy Return by 30 November will result in grant claims being withheld and if it is not received by 31 March 2021 employers will lose eligibility for all grant claims.
An Infrastructure Revolution
Build UK has published the latest in its series of factsheets on major infrastructure projects showing how they will benefit the UK. Northern Powerhouse Rail will involve the construction of six new rail lines to link the North’s major cities, including Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds, transforming the way people travel and unlocking the economic potential of the North of England.
Covering a range of national and local projects, such as Hinkley Point C and the Lower Thames Crossing, Build UK factsheets are designed to help everyone in the industry explain what each project is and why it is being built in Britain today.
Setting the Bar Report Published
The Competence Steering Group has published its Setting the Bar report, which responds to comments received on proposals to raise competency requirements across the construction sector, as set out in 2019’s Raising the Bar report. The new report identifies sector‐specific frameworks that will provide the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours required to safely carry out specific roles, including installers, site supervisors and project managers. Key recommendations include:
The creation of an industry‐led building safety competence committee
The introduction of an overarching competence framework covering core skills
Maintaining registers of individuals certified under recognised schemes.
Working Group 2 has proposed a framework to improve the competence of installers working on site, including a requirement for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and mandatory knowledge of fire safety in buildings, which starts on page 53 of the report.
Addressing skills challenges for construction – Strategic Plan 2021-25
We’re sharing our new Strategic Plan 2021-25 with you today, which sets out the key skills challenges for the construction industry and what CITB will do to address them. You can watch a video about our new Strategic Plan and how this links back to our recently published Annual Review here.
We expect COVID-19 to have a lasting impact on skills provision, creating an increased demand to protect specialist skills. We have built in flexibility so that we can respond if requirements change, using our experience and conversations with industry to understand the issues.
Due to reduced income, it will be essential that we focus on a smaller number of priorities to modernise and improve productivity, with greater access to training. We’ll help employers address gaps in provision, make training accessible and target funding where it’s needed, including through the Grants Scheme.
Some of the initiatives within the plan include:
Support 28,000 taster experiences of construction and help potential new entrants understand the opportunities available through Go Construct
Create a new pathway between Further Education and employment for 8,000 learners, including 1,600 apprenticeship starts
Give 19,000 people onsite experience to prepare them to start work in construction
£500m of grants and funding (77% of Levy) into direct employer funding - to help employers invest in training to rebuild after the pandemic and subsequently to modernise and boost productivity.
Together, we can build a productive workforce equipped in high quality, transferable, core and emerging skills that will pave the way for recovery. You can read more in our Strategic Plan 2021-25.
Levy Proposals and the 2020 Levy Return
In an earlier email this month, we informed you of our latest Levy Proposals, which we are proposing should be used in the Levy Assessment to be raised in August 2021. As well as a cut in Levy rates by 50% for all employers, the proposals will also mean that an extra 5,000 small employers will no longer have to pay any CITB Levy.
These rates will be applied to the information you provide in your 2020 Levy Return (covering 6th April 2019 – 5th April 2020), which you’ll receive for completion at the end of this month. All Levy Registered Employers have a requirement to complete this and submitting your Levy Return by 30 November 2020 allows you to access our 2020/21 Grants Scheme, and ensures that any outstanding grant payments can be made.
If you have any questions on how to complete your Levy Return, please contact us on 0344 994 4455 or email levy.grant@citb.co.uk. You can also complete your return online here.
People Survey – Share your views
The results of the first industry-wide People Survey, carried out by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) in June and reported in Retaining Talent in Construction, helped to secure funding and support for key initiatives.
To understand the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the construction workforce, the CLC has launched a second People Survey. The information gathered from responses helps us to understand the appropriate action required, identify the right priorities and influence government support for the areas of greatest need.
Please complete the online survey which should take no longer than 10 minutes by Friday 2 October. The information provided will be confidential with no company details required.
A reminder...
CITB’s COVID-19 urgent messages page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work. You can also read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus
Following the introduction of new restrictions last week, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has updated its statement on face coverings. The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus (COVID‐19) now recommends that face coverings are worn where workers on site are not required to wear Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and their workplace (which may include welfare and changing facilities, office or meetings rooms) meets all of the following criteria:
an enclosed space;
where social distancing isn’t always possible;
and where they come into contact with others they do not normally meet.
In line with Government guidance on premises providing hospitality, face coverings must be worn in site canteens except when seated at a table to eat or drink.
Please note you may need to refresh your browser cache to view the latest version by pressing Ctrl+Shift+R (WIndows) or Cmd+Shift+R (Mac).
NHS QR Code Required in Canteens
Following the launch of the NHS COVID‐19 app in England and Wales, canteens must create and display an official NHS QR code poster. The list of designated venues includes ‘cafes including workplace canteens’ which must record contact details of customers, visitors and staff. The NHS QR code is the easiest way of doing this, and the Government guidance states that such venues in England “do not have to ask people who choose to ‘check in’ using the official NHS QR code to provide their contact details”.
Talent Retention Scheme
Businesses across the industry are making good use of the new Construction Talent Retention Scheme, and there is a call for those in the East and West Midlands to promote their vacancies and tap into the growing pool of candidates in these areas. Over 250 applications for jobs have already been made through the system since its launch less than two months ago, and the first candidates have now been successfully redeployed. With the end of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme approaching on 31 October, the system will have a key role to play in retaining talent within construction.
TrustMark Requirements
TrustMark has published guidance on the requirements for its Scheme Operators under the new Green Homes Grant, which should be read in conjunction with the Framework Operating Requirements. The requirements for TrustMark Registered Businesses will be published shortly.
Insolvency Measures Measures to protect businesses from insolvency during coronavirus will be extended, including the virtual holding of AGMs until 30 December, restrictions on statutory demands and winding‐up petitions until 31 December, and the prohibition of termination clauses and the modifications to the moratorium procedure until 30 March 2021.
Keeping Construction Sites Operational
The clear message from the Prime Minister that construction sites can continue to operate, despite the increased restrictions, demonstrates the increasing recognition that construction is a significant part of the economy and the confidence the Government has in the industry implementing social distancing on sites.
Build UK has reviewed the changes announced this week and, where sites are complying with the relevant guidance in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the impact is minimal. Tradespeople can also continue to undertake work in people’s homes. The Site Operating Procedures are currently being updated to reflect minor changes that have been introduced since the last version was published in July.
Changes to Restrictions
Following the introduction of the new restrictions, there are some things that people need to do differently, with slight variances across the four nations, including:
Face coverings are now required to be worn in indoor premises providing hospitality, except when seated at a table to eat and drink. This will apply to canteens and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) statement on face coverings is being reviewed to ensure it reflects the new requirements.
Car sharing to and from work is still permitted in England and Wales, although people should try to avoid sharing a vehicle with those outside their household or support bubble, whilst Scotland has restricted it to people from the same household unless absolutely necessary.
Build UK continues to make the point that variations in restrictions across the four nations is not helpful for businesses that work across the whole of the UK.
Chancellor's Winter Economic Plan
The Chancellor unveiled his Winter Economy Plan yesterday, which included a new Job Support Scheme for six months to replace the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme when it ends on 31 October. Employees will be required to work a third of their regular hours to qualify, with the Government and employer each contributing 33% of the employee’s usual pay for hours not worked. The Self Employment Income Support Scheme will also be extended until April 2021.
Applications for the Government’s coronavirus loan schemes will be extended until 30 November, with a successor ‘loan guarantee programme’ to be launched in January 2021. The Bounce Back Loan Scheme will be supplemented by a ‘Pay as You Grow’ scheme, which will enable loans to be extended from six to 10 years, and both the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme will see their terms extended up to a maximum of 10 years where required.
Coronavirus Testing
If a member of the workforce shows any of the three main COVID‐19 symptoms, they should get a test within five days and self‐isolate until they have received their test result. In accordance with Government guidance, colleagues who were in close contact do not need to self‐isolate, unless requested to do so by NHS Test and Trace. They should be informed that a colleague (who should remain anonymous) may have COVID‐19 and they should take extra care in practising social distancing and good hygiene.
Contact Tracing App
The NHS COVID‐19 app has been launched in England and Wales to help control the spread of coronavirus. Although not legally required to do so, construction sites can create a unique NHS QR code and posters to display at each site entrance. Sites can also play their part by encouraging their workforce to download and use the app outside of work.
Self-Isolation Support
A new Test & Trace Support payment of £500 will be available to those on lower incomes who are required to self‐isolate and cannot work from home. The scheme should be in place by 12 October and payments backdated to 28 September.
VAT Repayments
Businesses that deferred their VAT payments earlier this year will now have the option to repay in 11 interest‐free instalments during the 2021‐22 financial year, rather than in one lump sum at the end of March 2021, to help with cashflow.
New Coronavirus Restrictions
The Prime Minister addressed the nation last night, exactly six months after announcing the first national lockdown, to explain the need for new restrictions in England to slow the rate of infection and stop a second wave of coronavirus.
There is a lot to take in following his statement to the House of Commons yesterday, including a return to the advice that people should work from home where they can, which is consistent with the position in Scotland and Wales. However, the message for construction is clear ‐ “in all professions where homeworking is not possible, such as construction or retail, people should continue to attend their workplaces” ‐ and there is no doubt that sites should remain open. Whilst we do need to review the long term implications for the sector, the priority right now is to ensure that our people are safe and sites can maintain the output they have worked so hard to regain.
The Site Operating Procedures should continue to be implemented and they are being reviewed to ensure they reflect the latest restrictions. We have already received a number of queries with regard to face coverings, following confirmation that their use will be increased in retail and indoor hospitality, and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) statement on face coverings will also be reviewed.
Construction has shown over the last six months that it can deliver in the face of significant challenges and now is the time to dig deep and keep going. We would ask each and every one of you to play your part by ensuring the social distancing measures are in place on your sites and reassuring your workforce that their welfare is a priority, whilst reminding them that complying with the restrictions off‐site is vital to keeping sites operational over the coming months.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): testing guidance for employers
Some employers may want to introduce their own internal testing programmes outside of the NHS Test and Trace service. This guidance will help them ensure that their testing programmes are as reliable and effective as possible. Further details can be found here
Companies House resumes voluntary strike off process
Temporary measures to suspend voluntary strike off action will be lifted from today (10 September 2020). Further details can be found here
Venues required by law to record contact details
Premises and venues across England must have a system in place to record contact details of their customers, visitors and staff in the latest move to break the chains of transmission of coronavirus. Further details can be found here
Some aspects of business support are devolved. Specific information for businesses and employers in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales is available. In England, Growth Hubs can advise on local and UK Government business support. You can also find helpful business case studies and other useful information on the Coronavirus Business Support Blog.
CPA Associates Citation are holding an exclusive webinar that CFA members are welcome to attend on 17 September 2020.
The webinar explores the challenges of bringing members of staff back to the workplace following the changes in government guidance. This includes preparation businesses can take from an HR point of view and specifics for workers with childcare or shielding concerns as well as those who have enjoyed working from home and would like it to continue.
Date: 17 September 2020 Time: 16:30 to 17:15 Join us: Please register onlineand you will receive an invite with a link to the webinar.
Their experts will also answer as many business-specific queries as they can, so come along armed with any questions you may have.
Citation have also written a blog post on managing homeworking and the challenges faced when returning to work. You can read this here.
VAT Reminder
The VAT payment deferral period ended on 30 June 2020 and any VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June should be paid in full on or before 31 March 2021.
For VAT payments due from 1 July, companies should make sure they are ready by:
Setting up cancelled direct debits in enough time for HMRC to take payment
Ensuring VAT returns are submitted as normal and on time
Paying the VAT in full on payments due after 30 June.
Sites are Open and Output is Up
Build UK Contractor members have reported that almost 100% of their sites are now open across England, Scotland and Wales. Whilst output has not quite returned to pre‐COVID levels, housing sites are operating at 99% output, with infrastructure sites at 95%, and construction sites at 89%, which is no doubt due to more restrictions as a result of social distancing. Programmes and costs have been impacted and it is likely that the majority of live projects will see revised completion dates.
Offices are increasingly opening up, with Contractor members expecting 50% of their staff to be back in their offices in some capacity by the end of September, rising to around 70% by the end of the year. The majority of members expect to see more flexible working arrangements in place across a wider range of roles going forward.
The Construction Playbook
The Government is working with the construction industry to find more effective ways of delivering ‘faster, better, greener’ infrastructure that provides value for money whilst supporting a more stable supply chain. The outcome will be a ‘Construction Playbook’, due to be published in December 2020, which will be similar to the existing Outsourcing Playbook and provide a consistent approach to the procurement of publicly‐funded projects by bringing together best practice from across the sector.
Hands, Face, Space
In a bid to keep infections down as winter approaches, the Government is launching the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ campaign. The simple message aims to promote hygiene and social distancing, and sites should continue to implement the Site Operating Procedures and maintain safe working practices.
The new UKCA mark - latest info from The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS)
This information is made available to CFA members by the Construction Products Association.
The new UK regime for assessing product conformity will cover most goods currently subject to the EU’s CE marking. The technical requirements for these goods will be the same on 1 January 2021 as they are now. However, there will be certain changes, including the introduction of the UKCA marking and a system of third-party conformity assessment by UK-recognised approved bodies, in place of the current EU system of notified bodies.
One point to be aware of concerns the ‘standstill period’ which for most CE marked goods will last from 1 January 2021until 31 December 2021. During this time businesses are encouraged to be ready for full implementation of the new UK regime as soon as possible after 1 January 2021. However, to allow businesses time to adjust, CE marked goods in scope of this guidance that meet EU requirements (where these match UK requirements) can continue to be placed on the GB market until 1 January 2022 where EU and UK requirements remain the same. This includes goods which have been assessed by an EU recognised notified body.
These transitional measures will only apply until the 1 January 2022. From this point the UKCA mark will be required to be displayed on products, where the CE mark is currently used, to show compliance to the UK domestic regime. To ease the burden on businesses, until 1 January 2023 for most UKCA marked goods you have the option to affix the UKCA marking on a label affixed to the product or on an accompanying document. The economic operators (whether manufacturer, importer, or distributor) should take reasonable steps to ensure the UKCA marking remains in place. From 1 January 2023, the UKCA marking must, in most cases, be affixed directly to the product. Manufacturers should start building this into the design process ready for this date.
The following links to recently-published guidance may be helpful:
Red Diesel Consultation
Following the announcement by Government that the entitlement to use red diesel on construction projects will be removed from April 2022, there is now a further consultation inviting a!ected industry sectors to set out any exceptional reasons why this change should be reviewed.
Whilst the industry supports the objective to tackle climate change, it has just 18 months to adapt from paying duty of 11.14 pence per litre for red diesel to paying the standard rate for road fuel diesel of 57.95 pence per litre, which will have significant implications, particularly on projects with heavy use of plant and equipment. Build UK is working with other trade bodies on the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to present a collective response from the construction sector.
CE Marking Changes
The Government has confirmed that CE marked products can continue to be sold in England, Wales and Scotland after the end of the transition period until 31 December 2021 to allow businesses time to adjust. From 1 January 2022, the CE mark will no longer be recognised and products will require the UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) mark from a ‘UK approved body’ to demonstrate compliance. Businesses are being encouraged now to prepare for the changes to the Construction Products Regulation, and the Government has published detailed guidance, although this does not cover Northern Ireland and further information will be provided for products to be placed on the market there.
CLOCS & Local Authorities
Build UK has joined the CIOB and ICE in calling for Local Authorities to adopt the Construction Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) standard in order to reduce the risks from construction vehicles to road users in local communities. Clients and contractors can play their part by implementing the CLOCS standard, which requires stakeholders in construction to take responsibility for health and safety ‘beyond the hoardings’, on all their projects across the UK and urging Local Authorities to do the same.
Talent Retention Scheme
The Construction Talent Retention Scheme is gathering pace as increasing numbers of employers and individuals sign up. Developed by the CLC and supported by BEIS, the job matching service enables companies to advertise vacancies with the aim of retaining people with the skills we need within the industry. Those looking for work can search for permanent and contract roles, find apprenticeships, and promote their knowledge and expertise.
Self-Employed Support Eligible individuals can claim a second and final grant via the Self‐Employment Income Support Scheme if their business has been adversely a!ected by coronavirus since 14 July. The deadline for claims is 19 October 2020 and individuals can claim the second grant even if they didn’t access the first.
Women Count
Companies are missing out on an additional £47 billion in pre‐tax profit due to a lack of gender diversity. Those with more than 33% of women on their executive committes achieve margins over 10 times greater than those with no women at this level, reinforcing the value of a more diverse workforce.
Drop in Number of Contracts
Pre‐coronavirus between August 2019 and March 2020, the number of contracts awarded each month averaged 583. In August 2020, there were 418 contracts awarded, which was 28% below the average and 19% lower than in August 2019. With the number of contracts having increased steadily since May, the industry will be hoping that the slight dip in August compared to July is an anomaly due to it being holiday season.
Value of Contracts Holds Up
The value of contracts awarded in August was £4.6 billion, which was 15% lower than the £5.4 billion awarded in July and 27% lower than the monthly average of £6.3 billion between August 2019 and March 2020. However, August is a traditionally low month for the value of contracts and, in some good news for the industry, this August was 39% higher than the £3.3 billion awarded last August. Nearly half of all the contracts awarded were housing projects (188 projects with a combined value of £2.3 billion). There were also 60 education‐related projects worth £420 million and 44 office projects with a total value of £260 million.
Tender Opportunities Remain Scarce
The number of tender opportunities in August fell by a third to 246, compared to 367 in July. This is 63% below the monthly average of 672 projects available for tender between August 2019 and March 2020 and 69% lower than August 2019.
At present, there are just 141 tender opportunities available until the end of November 2020, according to Builders’ Conference.
Green Homes Grant
Homeowners can now use the Simple Energy Advice website to get a personalised energy plan and identify tradespeople to undertake work under the Green Homes Grant scheme when it goes live.
Safer Transport Information is available for employers to share with their staff to help them plan their journey to and from work, which includes advice on car sharing where the use of face coverings is now recommended.
New Payment Scheme
People on low incomes in areas with high incidence rates of COVID‐19 who need to self‐isolate and are unable to work from home may now be eligible for a payment of up to £182.
Travel Corridors
Passengers arriving in England from the Czech Republic, Jamaica and Switzerland must now self‐isolate for 14 days after these countries were removed from the travel corridor list.
Following the decision in June to cut Levy bills by 25% across the next two years, CITB has seen its income reduce by £166m. Despite this reduced income, we have accelerated Apprenticeship Grants and prioritised Apprenticeship Support and Direct Employer Funding within our Skills Stability Plan. The immediate support we have been able to make available, together with the ongoing impact of Covid-19, has had a severe impact to CITB’s financial position.
As we move forward, it will therefore be more essential than ever that we continue to scrutinise the grants that we provide to support areas of greatest value to industry. This will ensure we invest industry funds correctly and with restricted funding, protect priority areas. We are therefore making the following changes to existing grants:
Degree-Placement Work Experience Grant
The Degree-Placement Work Experience Grant was claimed by only 108 employers last year, with half of those claiming less than £10,000. As a result, we are introducing a cap of £10,000 for each employer to claim for training undertaken from 1 April 2020 – 30 September 2021, with the eventual removal of the grant from 1 October 2021. Further details including deadlines to submit your application can be found here.
Plant Additional Unit Achievement Grant
Under the 2018 Grant Scheme Review, the Additional Unit Grant was highlighted as requiring review however this was not undertaken at the time. Whilst the review has not been carried out, in the current climate this additional grant cannot continue to be supported. This grant is therefore being withdrawn from 1 October 2020. Further information is available on our website.
We recognise the importance of funding to the plant sector and continue to invest significant levels. The full Plant Operations NVQs, short courses for plant related training, and CPCS theory and practical tests continue to be eligible for grant funding, and we will of course, continue to fund Plant Apprenticeship grants.
Those most adversely affected by the changes have already been notified. These difficult decisions have been made to enable us to continue to meet our obligations and support our industry.
Construction Talent Retention Scheme
Following the successful launch of the Talent Retention Scheme last month, we continue to work with the Construction Leadership Council and other partners to develop this initiative. To be the success we need it to be and secure ongoing support, we are encouraging as many employers and people looking for roles as possible to register on the platform.
If you missed the webinars that were hosted at launch these can still be viewed here, alongside a short introductory video.
Mental wellbeing training through the Lighthouse Club
Launched during Mental Health Awareness week in May, the Lighthouse Club has extended their series of free workshops for the rest of the year. The online ‘Wellbeing Sessions’ provide an introduction into important subjects, such as coping with stress and mindfulness, as well as CV writing and interview preparation.
There are many benefits to mental wellbeing training, find out more and register your interest here
Proposed changes at CITB
CITB announced yesterday a formal consultation with trade unions and employee representatives over proposals to reduce staffing levels, reflecting the ongoing impact Covid-19 has had on construction and for CITB, the projected significant reduction in Levy over the next three years. The proposed changes to CITB’s size and structure will allow us to focus expenditure on directly supporting construction employers with their key needs. We remain committed to working with construction partners and to the delivery of our current Skills Stability Plan. We will launch a four-year strategic plan covering 2021-25 in late September.
Following the introduction of the new points‐based immigration system on 1 January 2021, businesses that want to employ workers from outside the UK will need a sponsor licence. The Home Office has published an introduction for employers providing an overview of the new system and setting out the steps they can take to prepare. Visit Build UK’s ‘Are You Ready for Brexit?’ website for the latest information, and you can also sign up to receive regular updates from the Government.
In anticipation of reducing the Levy by 50% next year, CITB is forecasting a drop in income of £166 million over the next two years, which will have a significant impact on the grants available for training and qualifications. CITB has confirmed that from 1 October 2020 the Plant Additional Unit grant will be withdrawn and the Degree‐Placement Work Experience grant capped at £10,000 per employer before being withdrawn completely from 1 October 2021.
CITB is also looking to reduce its own costs and has started a formal consultation with trade unions and employee representatives which is expected to result in 110 redundancies, as well as the amalgamation of its partnerships and apprenticeships teams.
The Construction Talent Retention Scheme is now live to match employers that have job opportunities with individuals looking for employment in the industry. If you are an employer, you can list any of your vacancies for free and play your part in keeping hold of the people and skills the industry has invested in.
The Government has set up a new Acceleration Unit to speed up the delivery of major transport projects and tackle delays in infrastructure projects. Recommended by Balfour Beatty in its 'Seizing the Day' report and suggested by Build UK to Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi, the new unit will call on Clients and Contractors with knowledge and experience of successful projects, including Build UK members Highways England (Chris Taylor, Director of Complex Infrastructure Projects) and Mace (Mark Reynolds, Chief Executive).
The leading suppliers of materials to the construction sector have reported a busy start to the second half of the year, with tradespeople seeing strong demand for domestic repair, maintenance and improvement work and associated materials. Travis Perkins recently surveyed over 1,300 customers and 91% expect this high demand to continue. Respondents were not too concerned about the impact of Brexit, with 97% not taking any action at all to prepare for a ‘no deal’.
When the Prime Minister announced his New Deal for Britain in June 2020, he promised to promote a clean, green recovery, and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has issued a Statement on Net Zero Carbon and the Climate Emergency setting out how it will play its part in delivering a net zero carbon future.
The £2 billion Green Homes Grant, supporting energy‐saving home improvements, will go live at the end of September 2020, and anyone installing measures under the scheme must be registered with TrustMark (through a scheme provider) or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). A number of Build UK Trade Association members are Trustmark Scheme Providers and can register their members to ensure they are ready to install the range of energy efficiency measures covered by the grant. Companies that aren’t a member of a Trustmark Scheme Provider can find a list of scheme providers that cover their trade by entering their details on the Trustmark website.
The Planning for the Future consultation anticipates that from 2025 new homes will produce 75% ‐ 80% lower CO2 emissions compared to current levels and will be ‘zero carbon ready’, with the ability to become fully zero carbon homes over time without the need for retrofitting work.
From 1 September 2020, the level of grant available under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be reduced further. Employers will only be able to claim 70% of a furloughed employee’s wages and will have to contribute the remaining 10% to ensure employees continue to receive at least 80% of their wages, up to a maximum of £2,500. Employers will also have to pay National Insurance and pension contributions. At the end of July, 76% of construction employers had accessed the scheme claiming almost £3 billion in grants, and the total cost of the scheme now stands at £35.4 billion having supported 9.6 million jobs.
Austria, Croatia, and Trinidad and Tobago have been removed from the Government’s list of travel corridors, meaning passengers arriving in England from these countries must now self‐isolate for 14 days. Portugal has been added to the list and people can arrive without having to self‐isolate.
Collection of the CITB Levy will resume in September 2020 after being suspended due to coronavirus, and CITB is offering employers interest‐free direct debit instalments to spread payment over a 12‐month period until August 2021. The amount you are required to pay will be reflected in your 2019 Levy Assessment Notice, which will be distributed by post this month, along with a direct debit mandate. The first instalment is due by 28 September, and existing direct debits will automatically switch to the new instalment plan.
For 2021/22, CITB has proposed a 50% reduction in the Levy, as well as raising the threshold at which companies are liable for Levy from £80,000 to £120,000. CITB has released an online Levy Calculator to provide a guide to what your Levy may look like, and payment will be taken in six instalments between September 2021 and February 2022.
CITB will be withdrawing its New Apprentice Support Grant of £500 from 1 September 2020, as there is now other support in place. Employers in England who hire a new apprentice between 1 August 2020 and 31 January 2021 can apply for the following funding from 1 September 2020:
£2,000 for each new apprentice aged 16 to 24
£1,500 for each new apprentice aged 25 and over.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has announced the creation of the National Institute for Health Protection (NIHP), which will bring together Public Health England (PHE), NHS Test and Trace, and the Joint Biosecurity Centre. The primary focus of the new organisation, which will be operational from spring 2021, will be to control infectious diseases and respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
With companies looking at how they return to the office whilst maintaining the benefits realised from working from home, a recent report has revealed that people will do an extra month’s work each year and gain the equivalent of almost 26 days in time off if they maintain habits developed during coronavirus. An average of 84 minutes a day has been saved by not commuting to and from the office, which has been split almost evenly between work and leisure. As part of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) work on retaining people in the industry, Build UK is working with Timewise and four ‘pioneer’ Contractors to understand how we can introduce more flexible working arrangements into construction.
Transport for London (TfL) has now returned to good service levels, but passengers are still being urged to avoid travelling during peak times (05:45 ‐ 08:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30) and to plan their journey by checking the busiest stations, stops and routes and walking where possible. TfL has published a dedicated toolkit for the construction sector, setting out specific travel advice for the workforce on sites across London.
I am pleased to say that our easy-to-use online Levy Calculator is now live. The Calculator can provide a guide to your 2020/21 Levy Assessment Notice based on the 2019 Levy Return (for the 2018/19 tax year). You can access the Calculator in English and Welsh on our website. Please note, the actual amount payable will be on the 2019 Levy Assessment Notice you’ll receive in the post this month.
Today’s launch follows important changes to the levy, first shared in June alongside the Skills Stability Plan, when we announced the delay of Levy payments from May 2020 until September 2020. We also proposed a reduction on the 2021/22 Levy rate, providing an overall saving of 25% across two years, to help businesses with cash flow.
You can also use the Levy Calculator to see what your Levy may look like in relation to the 2020 Levy Return (for payment in 2021/22), to help you plan.
Setting up interest-free direct debit for your 2019 CITB Levy Assessment Notice
To benefit from the extended period of interest-free direct debits, you will need to complete and return the direct debit mandate that will accompany the 2019 Levy Assessment Notice. The first direct debit instalment is due by 28 September 2020. Existing direct debits will automatically switch to the new instalment plan.
More information can be found here. If you have an estimated Levy payment or need guidance on what to do, please click here.
New short duration Pandemic Standard & supporting eCourse
CITB has developed a full Pandemic Standard with a FREE eCourse to follow in October. The nationally recognised certification will provide information on how to keep staff and customers safe, how to control the spread of a virus and an understanding of the requirements placed on businesses during a pandemic.
The ‘Setting up and operating a safe construction site during an epidemic or pandemic’ Standard has been rated as Grant Tier Zero, meaning it is not grant supported. Designed for managers and supervisors, but available to anyone wanting this certification, the free eCourse will be hosted on the CITB eCourses platform when it launches in October.
You can find more information about the Standard here.
Grant changes & support for apprenticeships
With a significant reduction in CITB Levy income, it is important that we continue to scrutinise the grants that we provide so they deliver the greatest value to the industry.
One year on from the launch of the New Apprentice Support Grant (NASG) pilot, research indicates that the £500 aid was not a key decision maker for those looking to take on an apprentice. With this in mind, and with considerable support now in place from other sources, we will be removing the New Apprentice Support Grant (NASG) from 1 September 2020.
The UK Government recently announced additional support, which will be extremely beneficial for both apprentices and employers in England. Employers who hire a new apprentice between 1 August 2020 and 31 January 2021 can apply for the following funding from 1 September 2020:
• £2,000 for each new apprentice aged 16 to 24
• £1,500 for each new apprentice aged 25 and over
We are in discussions with the Welsh and Scottish government about any further support they will be providing for apprentices, and we will continue to provide attendance and achievement grants for apprenticeships in England, Scotland and Wales.
Update to Covid-19 site safety checklist and forms
We continue to share guidance and signpost to the many sources of information available to help returning to work safely. As part of this, version 5.1 of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) guidance and CITB’s Covid-19 checklist and forms are now available on the Urgent Messages page of our website. This includes updates for mandatory face masks in public places.
A reminder…
CITB’s COVID-19 Urgent Messages page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work. You can also read the range of support measuresmade available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
Companies may find their auditors including a note in their annual accounts referring to the impact of COVID‐19 on their performance and prospects. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has reminded its members of their responsibility to prepare accounts that provide a ‘true and fair’ view, including referencing any uncertainty that may affect the company’s ability to continue as a going concern. However, such notes may affect a company’s credit rating and in turn its ability to access bonds or finance.
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has published information relating to coronavirus disease reports made by employers under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Since 10 April 2020, 7,971 notifications have been made to the HSE and Local Authorities, with 75% of them coming from the Health and Social Work sector.
Another week and another update to the Government’s list of travel corridors! France, the Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Aruba have now been removed, meaning passengers arriving in England from these countries must self‐isolate for 14 days. There is a list of very specific roles that are exempt from self‐isolating, including road hauliers; those carrying out essential emergency and maintenance work on water, sewerage, electrical or rail networks; and workers with specialist skills that ensure the continued production of goods. Those who live in the UK but travel overseas for work at least once a week are also exempt.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC), the Competence Steering Group and its working groups, and the Early Adopters have all been commended for their leadership in the latest report from the Independent Safety Steering Group (ISSG) submitted by Dame Judith Hackitt to the Secretary of State. Playing an ever‐increasing role in supporting the industry, the CLC has recently established a number of Brexit working groups to ensure there is sufficient guidance and representation for construction in the run up to the end of the transition period.
The Government will be launching new Trader Support Services for businesses that move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or bring goods into Northern Ireland from outside the UK, to provide advice on changes to the movement of goods and support for completing customs declarations. Businesses can register their interest by completing this HMRC questionnaire.
From 10 October 2020, Companies House will re‐start compulsory strike off for companies on the register if it has reasonable cause to believe that they are no longer carrying on business or in operation. For companies seeking to be voluntarily struck off, the process will restart on 10 September.
With the UK now officially in recession, the Prime Minister’s commitment to ‘Build Build Build’ offers some relief for the construction sector and the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery provides a platform for clear and consistent dialogue with Ministers. The rapid response from the Government, including the Green Homes Grant and proposals to reform the planning system, shows how much the industry can achieve when it works together.
In response to coronavirus, the use of face coverings has become mandatory in more public places, and construction employers have asked the CLC for guidance to help provide a consistent approach across the industry. In The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus (COVID-19), it is proposed that employers make available face coverings as a minimum where workers are not required to wear RPE for their specific task and their workplace meets all of the following criteria:
an enclosed space
where social distancing isn’t always possible
where they come into contact with others they do not normally meet.
In addition to the funding of £1,000 already available for apprentices aged either 16 - 18 or under 25 with an education, health and care plan or who have been in the care of their local authority, employers who hire a new apprentice between 1 August 2020 and 31 January 2021 can apply for the following funding from 1 September as part of the Chancellor’s Plan for Jobs:
£2,000 for each new apprentice aged 16 to 24
£1,500 for each new apprentice aged 25 and over.
Employers must have an apprenticeship service account and payments will be made in two equal instalments from January 2021, with the first 50% paid within 90 days of the apprentice’s start date and the remaining 50% after the apprentice completes 365 days of their apprenticeship. Apprentices that have been made redundant are eligible as long as they are a new employee to the organisation, and they must have at least 356 days of training left to complete in order to claim the second payment.
From Monday 17 August 2020, eligible individuals will be able to claim a second and final grant under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme if their business has been adversely affected by coronavirus since 14 July. This second grant, which is equivalent to 70% of average monthly trading profits for three months and capped at £6,570, can still be claimed if the first grant wasn’t accessed.
The Government’s guidance on calculating how much a company can claim under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been updated to include information on how to calculate claims for fixed pay employees who have worked enough overtime (in the tax year 2019 to 2020) to have a significant impact on the amount to be claimed.
HMRC is running a series of webinars on the following topics:
Cash flow remains a key issue for the construction supply chain as the industry recovers from the impact of coronavirus. A new report shows that compliance with prompt payment rules on central Government contracts has increased significantly since a new policy was introduced almost a year ago requiring suppliers to pay 75% of their invoices within 60 days. The Government is intending to raise the requirement to 95% over time, and more than half of Government spending in 2019 was with suppliers that met this target, up from less than a third in 2018. On average, Build UK Contractor members pay 92% of their invoices within 60 days, and the latest payment results for more than 100 of the industry’s largest companies can be found on the Build UK website.
The Government is keen to support SMEs recovering from the effects of coronavirus and is investing £20 million in two free training programmes:
The Small Business Leadership Programme, which will be delivered virtually over 10 weeks, will equip business leaders with confidence and leadership skills
The Peer Networks Programme will help business owners that want to grow and develop their businesses to improve their problem-solving skills by focusing on common business issues.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) is leading a UK-wide project to develop a digital waste tracking service aimed at tackling the illegal disposal of waste. The project is looking for contractors to assist in trialling the system and interested companies can sign up to the virtual panel.
Transport for London (TfL) has updated its toolkit for the construction sector, setting out the latest travel advice for the workforce on sites across London, now that more workplaces are opening up.
The Government’s list of travel corridors is constantly under review, and Belgium, Andorra and The Bahamas have recently been removed, meaning passengers arriving in England from these countries must now self-isolate for 14 days. From today (11 August 2020), Brunei and Malaysia have been added and people can arrive without having to self-isolate.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery is being delivered at pace, with the Government confirming that the £2 billion Green Homes Grant, supporting energy‐saving home improvements, will go live at the end of September. Companies and tradespeople installing measures under the scheme must be registered with either TrustMark or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Later this month, homeowners across England will be able to access advice and support on improving the energy efficiency of their homes via the Simple Energy Advice (SEA) service, with funding of up to £5,000 available (£10,000 for households on low income).
The Government has now published its Planning for the Future white paper, setting out its proposals to reform the planning system in England to become much more user‐friendly and adaptable to the changing needs of the economy. The consultation, which is open for 12 weeks, includes a streamlined application process, a new national levy and homes to be ‘zero carbon ready’, and will close on Thursday 29 October 2020.
Under new legislation which came into force on 31 July 2020, furloughed employees who are made redundant will now receive statutory redundancy and notice pay, along with any other entitlements, based on their normal wage.
The CLC’s recently launched Construction Talent Retention Scheme is a free online portal matching employers that have job opportunities with individuals looking for employment in the industry. There is a growing pool of candidates and, if you are looking to recruit, please register and add your vacancies, including any apprenticeships. This is a great way for the sector to help itself and keep hold of the people and skills it has invested in.
Construction sites are reminded that delivery drivers must have access to suitable toilet and handwashing facilities and should be made aware of the social distancing arrangements in place. The legal responsibility to provide access to these facilities lies with whoever controls the premises that drivers are visiting.
Companies House has reopened its telephone contact line on 0303 123 4500 and enquiries can also be emailed to enquiries@companieshouse.gov.uk.
The government is introducing a new Job Retention Bonus to provide additional support to employers who keep on their furloughed employees in meaningful employment, after the government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends on 31 October 2020. The Job Retention Bonus is a one-off payment to employers of £1,000 for every employee who they previously claimed for under the scheme, and who remains continuously employed through to 31 January 2021. Eligible employees must earn at least £520 a month on average between the 1 November 2020 and 31 January 2021. Employers will be able to claim the Job Retention Bonus after they have filed PAYE for January and payments will be made to employers from February 2021.
Find out more information about the Job Retention Bonus here. Full guidance will be published by the end of September.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Guidance
New guidance has been published for those who have claimed too much or not enough from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
Self-isolation period extended to 10 days
The UK's Chief Medical Officers have extended the self-isolation period to 10 days for those in the community who have coronavirus symptoms or a positive test result. More information is available here.
Today’s update is slightly longer than usual as it also contains the latest information on contracts and tender opportunities from Build UK partner, Builders’ Conference.
The Prime Minister’s speech on Friday provided an update on the easing of lockdown restrictions in England following a rise in the number of coronavirus cases:
Whilst there are local restrictions on household contact in certain areas, there was no change to the advice for employers having the discretion to open offices and workplaces from 1 August
People who are clinically extremely vulnerable are no longer advised to shield and can return to work as long as their workplace is COVID‐secure and they can maintain social distancing, although they are advised to carry on working from home if they can
From 8 August, face coverings will become mandatory in more indoor places, including cinemas, museums and places of worship.
The Site Operating Procedures state that Government guidance (which includes any Local Authority requirements) must be followed, and in areas of localised lockdowns it is expected that sites will assess the local conditions and respond accordingly. This may include reverting to the social distancing practices in place prior to the easing of the national lockdown, such as not opening canteens and rigorously enforcing hygiene and cleaning regimes.
The Scottish Government has not set a date for the re‐opening of non‐essential offices, and working from home where feasible remains the default position. The earliest a date will be announced is the next review of the Route Map on 10 September.
Secretary of State for Housing Robert Jenrick announced major changes to the planning system in an article for The Telegraph last weekend. The reforms will introduce simpler and faster processes to deliver the homes and places needed in areas designated for growth or renewal, and further information is expected to be published later this week.
This is welcome news for the industry, as the latest information from Builders' Conference underlines the continuing impact of coronavirus on contracts and tender opportunities. Pre‐coronavirus between July 2019 and March 2020, the number of contracts awarded each month averaged 587. In July 2020, there were 430 contracts awarded, which was a slight improvement on the 415 contracts awarded in June, but 27% below the average and 30% less than in July 2019.
Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has been clear that maintaining cash flow through the industry is critical, and its Statement on Payment and Contracts called on all businesses to continue to pay in accordance with agreed contractual terms.
Build UK has updated its payment performance table today, which indicates that the largest companies in the sector have taken note and are playing their part. The latest results published under the Duty to Report on Payment Practices and Performance show that standards of payment performance have been upheld during extremely challenging circumstances, with Build UK Contractor members maintaining an average of 36 days to pay invoices during the first half of the year. On average, they now pay 92% of their invoices within 60 days and 75% within terms.
In response to feedback, Build UK’s table has been expanded with more than 40 of the industry’s largest companies, including clients, housebuilders and contractors, to provide a more coherent picture of payment practices within construction than ever before.
Build UK and CITB have joined forces with STEM Ambassadors to showcase careers in construction to young people. Announced in Building Magazine earlier this week, the new partnership will help to recruit talent and support the CLC Roadmap to Recovery. STEM Construction and Built Environment Ambassadors volunteer their time and experience to inspire young people to join construction and further information on how you can get involved is available in our short film.
The self‐isolation period for those who have symptoms of coronavirus or a positive test result has been extended from 7 to 10 days, based on growing evidence that people with coronavirus may remain infectious for up to 9 days following the onset of illness.
With employers having the discretion to open offices and workplaces from 1 August 2020, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is highlighting the risks associated with legionella. If your building has been closed or had reduced occupancy during coronavirus, water system stagnation can occur due to lack of use increasing the risks of Legionnaires’ disease. Build UK Trade Association member, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), has produced guidance on managing this and other issues when reactivating buildings.
The CLC has issued a Contracts and Disputes Surveyto understand the nature and extent of commercial issues within the industry. The findings will inform a review and any updates to the CLC’s guidance and the deadline for responses is Friday 21 August.
Today’s email update includes how you can benefit from the Government’s new ConstructionTalent Retention Scheme; exciting news about our Construction Ambassador programme; and an important reminder to have your say on our net zero research.
Construction Talent Retention Scheme
The new scheme, designed to match job opportunities to individuals seeking employment and run by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), went live last Friday (24 July). It’s already off to a very promising start with 482 employers currently signed up to use the scheme, and over 240 vacancies posted, with more being added every day.
If you are a business or individual looking to find out more, please visit the Talent Retention Scheme portal here.
CITB’s Covid-19 Displaced Apprentice Project team will also be reaching out to apprentices impacted by the pandemic. They will work with them to find alternative employment where possible, or signpost them to other support services, including the Talent Retention Scheme.
Apprentices will also be supported by CITB with the more practical elements, such as developing CVs and interview preparation, to provide the best possible chance at securing employment. If you are an employer willing to take on an Apprentice that has been made redundant, register with the Talent Retention Scheme or get in touch with CITB – it’s vital we don’t lose these people from our industry.
Ambassadors move to STEM Learning
Ambassadors are an important link between employers and schools, and CITB has supported the Construction Ambassador programme for many years. We have 1400 Ambassadors currently engaged with the programme, representing over 600 employers. Sharing their knowledge of working in the industry, Ambassadors ensure young people are inspired about our sector, and informed on their choice of career opportunities.
We have taken the decision to transfer the service to STEM Learning, as the UK’s largest provider of education and careers support in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. With over 30,000 Ambassadors and 19 STEM Hubs across the UK, this move will enable the programme to benefit from a wide range of opportunities and support.
This collaboration means we can develop our programme further using STEM’s digital platform as the one-stop shop for all events, feedback and resources. Not only will we be able to gain access to events held across all UK secondary schools, but this will enable us to better equip Ambassadors with the right resources, making sure we promote the industry fully and consistently.
To become a STEM Ambassador, you need to register hereand select to participate in the ‘Construction and the built environment’scheme. For guidance on how to register or manage your STEM profile, please visit Go Construct.
To commit to the scheme as an employer, please register here.
We would really like to see other Ambassador programmes across construction join the STEM offer, so we have an industry wide approach that our educational partners can easily access.
Have your say on net zero
The UK Government is legally bound to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050, which means we will need to change how we build. But how can you and your business benefit?
CITB is working with Government to understand what skills the construction industry needs to access the new markets involved and will publish recommendations later in the year. This is a key opportunity to influence and help shape the support you need. Please complete our online survey which should take 10 minutes and closes on Monday 3 August.
CITB’s COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects, including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click here to view it.
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government please click here.
Build UK has published an executive summary of the National Infrastructure and Construction Procurement Pipeline 2020/21 to help the industry understand recent Government announcements on the delivery of £37 billion of economic and social infrastructure projects. It shows a breakdown of 340 public sector contracts by sector, together with when they will actually be awarded, and more granular detail on each contract can be found in the pipeline workbook.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has announced a number of new policies, which should help to support construction activity, and further detail has been published including:
Changes to Use Classes Order ‐ From 1 September 2020, a number of existing uses will be condensed into a single commercial, business and service use, which means that planning permission will not be required for changing use going forward. There are a list of exemptions, including pubs, bars, nightclubs and take‐away food establishments, which will continue to require planning permission.
A new permitted development right ‐ From 31 August 2020, commercial buildings will be able to be replaced with residential buildings using a streamlined prior approval process, rather than a full planning application. There will be a number of qualifications, including a vacancy test of six months, a size limitation of 1,000 square metres, and a height limit of 18 metres.
Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme ‐ A new £3 billion scheme will increase investment in providers of affordable housing and support the delivery of a significant number of new affordable homes. The contract for a delivery partner to operate the scheme should be awarded over the coming weeks and the scheme will be open for business by the end of the year.
The Government has published guidance on extending construction working hours introduced in the Business and Planning Act. Companies are now able to request extended and flexible site working hours through a fast‐track application process, with Local Authorities having 14 calendar days to make a decision otherwise the revised working hours will be deemed to have been consented to.
The Chancellor has launched the 2020 Comprehensive Spending Review, which will set out the Government’s spending plans for the current parliament when it is published in the autumn. Due to the current uncertainty, the Chancellor has not fixed a set spending amount but confirmed that departmental spending will grow in real terms across the period.
The Government’s list of travel corridors, which details the countries that passengers can travel to England from without having to self‐isolate for 14 days on arrival, is constantly under review and countries can be added or removed at any time. Spain was removed over the weekend and Estonia, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines have been added from today (28 July 2020).
The Construction Talent Retention Scheme is now live! The new online portal helps businesses find the skills they need by providing access to talented individuals at risk of redundancy. Almost 450 businesses have signed up to use the scheme, and Build UK members Balfour Beatty, BAM, Bouygues UK, Keltbray, and Mace are all ‘early adopters’ helping to get the scheme off to a flying start. Find out more by registering for the Construction Enquirer webinar today from 2:00pm ‐ 3:00pm.
“Today marks the 75th Build UK update on coronavirus! As well as thanking all of you for reading and sharing our updates across the industry, I would like to say a huge thank you to the Build UK team which has worked tirelessly to produce every one. As Parliament begins its summer break today, we will be publishing updates on Tuesdays and Fridays from next week onwards. For those of you that haven’t had the chance to watch our short film, do take a moment to remind yourself just what the industry has been through over the last few months and how we can, if we really want to, transform construction.”
Suzannah Nichol, Build UK Chief Executive
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published the draft Building Safety Bill, which sets out wide‐ranging measures to keep residents of high‐rise buildings safe. These include establishing a new Building Safety Regulator within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to oversee more stringent rules for such buildings. Further information can be found in our latest Grenfell Update.
From 1 August 2020, the level of grant available under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be reduced each month. In August, employers will still be able to claim 80% of a furloughed worker’s wages; however, they will now have to pay National Insurance and pension contributions.
The deadline for submitting claims for furlough periods ending on or before 30 June is next Friday 31 July 2020. If you have over claimed through the scheme, you can repay your grant by either correcting it in your next claim or making a repayment to HMRC if you are not making another claim.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published a Cost Assessment Toolkit to help the industry assess and forecast the cost implications of disruption due to coronavirus, in order to make more informed investment decisions.
The way in which new apprenticeships are delivered will change from a framework to a standards model from 1 August 2020, and all employers in England will have to arrange their apprenticeships through the Government's Apprenticeship Service from 1 April 2021. CITB is advising employers still using apprenticeship frameworks to plan their move to standards and set up an Apprenticeship Service account.
The CLC is hosting two webinars next week. The first is on Managing Disputes and Costs on Monday 27 July from 2:00pm ‐ 3:00pm and you can register online. The second is with Construction Enquirer on the new Construction Talent Retention Scheme on Tuesday 28 July from 2:00pm ‐ 3:00pm and you can register by emailing: enquiries@ceca.co.uk.
As part of the easing of lockdown restrictions, people may now use public transport in England for any journey, although they are still being encouraged to consider alternative means of transport where possible. Face coverings are mandatory on public transport in England and travellers should maintain social distancing where possible.
Transport for London (TfL) continues to encourage people to avoid using the network during peak times (05:45 ‐ 08:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30) and has published a construction toolkit with guidance for businesses.
With hotels reopening across the country, the Open Doors website will now only be used for areas of localised lockdown to ensure construction workers can still find accommodation in these areas and the site currently provides details of five hotels in Leicester.
Construction sites in Scotland have been given the go ahead to progress to Phase 4 of the Construction Restart Plan, which is steady state operation with physical distancing being maintained or controlled close working with PPE. Following confirmation that the supply of medical‐style PPE to the NHS and social care is assured, the guidance from Construction Scotland is that the wearing of medical‐style PPE can be added to the range of control measures available.
From 1 August 2020, people in England who are clinically extremely vulnerable will no longer be advised to shield. Individuals will be able to go to work as long as the workplace is COVID‐secure and they can maintain social distancing in their role, although they are advised to carry on working from home if they can.
Companies House has introduced a temporary service enabling UK‐based businesses to request to have an authentication code sent to an active officer’s home address instead of the registered office.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will launch the Construction Talent Retention Scheme on Friday with the support of Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi. Construction Enquirer will be hosting a webinar on the new online service on Tuesday 28 July from 2:00pm ‐ 3:00pm to demonstrate how the scheme works and you can register via email.
As lockdown restrictions continue to be lifted, there will be changes in Government guidance. Employers will have the discretion to open offices and workplaces from 1 August 2020 as long as it is safe to do so and, subject to successful pilots, conferences and other business events will be able to recommence from October. New regulations will give the Government the ability to close whole sectors and introduce local ‘stay at home orders’, and Local Authorities will receive new powers to respond quickly to localised outbreaks of coronavirus.
Supporting the increase in off‐site construction, Build UK member NHBC is now offering NHBC Accepts, which certifies innovative products and systems used in homes covered by its Buildmark warranty. Giving buyers, investors and lenders confidence in homes built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), this supports the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery and the drive towards more off‐site construction.
The Government’s new Brexit campaign, The UK’s new start: let’s get going, is designed to help businesses and individuals prepare for the end of the transition period and the new rules coming in from 1 January 2021. Actions that can be taken now include:
Signing up for regular updates from the Government
Obtaining an EORI number if you import or export goods, and deciding whether you want to handle customs declarations or use an agent
There will also be a new points‐based immigration system which will apply to EU and non‐EU citizens and require those that want to work in the UK to meet a specific set of requirements. In addition to passing the relevant UK criminality checks, the job must have a salary of at least £20,480, and 50 points are ‘earned’ by meeting the following mandatory criteria:
The applicant must have an offer of a job from a licensed sponsor
The job must be at or above the minimum skill level: RQF3 level or equivalent (A level or equivalent qualification). Workers will not need to hold a formal qualification; it is the skill level of the job they will be doing which is important
The applicant must speak English to an acceptable standard.
An additional 20 points will then be required which can be gained through a combination of a higher salary, a job being on the shortage occupation list, and/or the holding of additional qualifications.
CITB has confirmed that Site Safety Plus (SSP) courses and Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) tests will recommence in Wales from today, Monday 20 July, and in Scotland from Wednesday 22 July.
The Government continues to show its support for construction with Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi hosting his regular call with industry yesterday for a wide‐ranging discussion. Responding to a question from Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol, the Minister confirmed his commitment to developing a strong partnership with the sector and improving the delivery of infrastructure projects across the UK, saying: “trust and accountability are key and we have plans to spend £640 billion on construction projects over the next five years”.
In support of its Statement on Payment and Contracts, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published three new guidance documents to help companies manage the impact of COVID‐19 within their contracts:
Future Proofing Guidance: JCT/NEC Contract Amendments ‐ offers a starting point for dealing with the COVID‐19 pandemic in future contracts, with template options for amending the most common JCT and NEC forms of contract
The Government has updated its guidance on apprenticeships confirming:
As of 13 July 2020, providers can welcome back apprentices aged 19+ into educational settings, in addition to 16 ‐ 19 year olds
Face‐to‐face training can be reintroduced for apprentices aged 19+ where this can be safely accommodated
The flexibility to suspend functional skills for level 2 apprentices has been extended until 31 December 2020
Where an apprentice has been made redundant but is continuing their apprenticeship study, they can claim Universal Credit (UC) if they satisfy the eligibility criteria.
CITB has confirmed that the National Construction Collegesat Bircham Newton, Erith and Kings Norton have reopened and are taking a phased approach to resuming face‐to‐face training.
Ahead of the introduction of the Plastic Packaging Tax in April 2022, the Government has released a consultation document as the tax will impact a wide range of industries including construction and manufacturing. As a result of coronavirus, the consultation period has been extended by three months until 20 August 2020.
Recofloor continues to service its members by collecting from distributors and contractors' premises across the UK, posting bags, offering advice on the scheme and helping to reduce waste vinyl disposal costs.
Measures have been put in place to manage collection frequency and guarantee safest possible handling and processing of materials. If you usually drop-off vinyl waste please contact your local flooring distributor to confirm requirements prior to drop-off at their premises. Please click here for more information.
We are closely monitoring the progress and will continue to keep you updated through social media channels, emails and our website. If you would like to contact us, please send us an email at info@recofloor.org or contact a member of the Recofloor team on 0161 355 7618.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock announced yesterday that face coverings will become compulsory in shops and supermarkets in England from 24 July 2020. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is reviewing the position for the construction sector and whether any changes will be required to the Site Operating Procedures.
In addition to registering as a user of the new Construction Talent Retention Scheme, companies that currently have vacancies available are being asked to consider becoming ‘early adopters’ of the scheme ahead of its launch next week. If you are interested in getting ahead of the game in securing the skills your business needs, please contact Build UK about becoming an early adopter by this Friday 17 July to have your details put forward.
Name of the site visitor. For groups, the name of the ‘lead member’ and the number of people should be recorded
Contact phone number for the visitor or the lead member of a group
Date of visit, arrival time and, where possible, departure time.
For companies using MSite, Datascope, the Go Smart App or similar systems to read CSCS and partner scheme cards, gathering the data will be a quick and simple process. Unless otherwise agreed by the individual, no other data should be collected for the purposes of Test and Trace and it should be deleted or securely disposed of after 21 days.
Where staff are notified by the Test and Trace service that they must self‐isolate, employers with fewer than 250 employees can apply to HMRC to recover the costs of paying coronavirus‐related SSP under the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme. Claims should be submitted via the online service and there is currently no indication of when the scheme will close.
The Welsh Government has issued guidance to Keep Wales Safe ‐ at work in construction and other outdoor work, which states that companies “must take all reasonable measures to ensure a two metre physical distance is maintained”. Where reasonable measures cannot be taken and closer working is required, it is important that other measures are considered, including minimising the level of interaction and using physical barriers.
The Department for Education (DfE) has issued a Prior Information Notice (PIN) to begin market engagement for its next Construction Framework due to start at the end of 2021. Interested contractors and suppliers must register by Wednesday 22 July at 5:00pm to attend one of the online market engagement events on 28 and 29 July 2020 at 10:00am.
After everything the industry has been through over the last few months, and with more uncertainty ahead, the overriding message from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has been that our sector's long‐term resilience depends on working collaboratively. It is therefore extremely disappointing to receive evidence that some companies are reverting to bad habits and squeezing their supply chains, rather than taking the opportunity to revolutionise the way in which construction projects are delivered.
The CLC statement on Payment and Contracts, supported by Build UK, reminds everyone that actions at this time will be remembered and that all firms should think hard about how their reputation could be damaged by not doing the right thing. Every business, large and small, has a critical role to play in making sure that cash continues to flow throughout the industry.
To help relieve pressure on businesses whilst they adapt to different ways of working during coronavirus, there have been further temporary changes to legislation and other requirements including:
Extending deadlines for filing records at Companies House, including accounts confirmation statements and other company events, such as a change to a company’s directors. Guidance is available for all companies, with additional information for public companies
Enabling companies to submit Companies House forms via an online service
To meet environmental targets, the construction sector will no longer be entitled to use red diesel to fuel plant and equipment on sites from April 2022. Further consultation is now underway on how the changes will be implemented and their expected impact, which does offer the industry the opportunity to present exceptional reasons why it should be allowed to continue to use red diesel beyond this date.
Construction companies can now register their interest for the industry’s new Talent Retention Scheme ahead of its launch later this month. Developed by the CLC in partnership with Government, the free to use scheme will match workers at risk of redundancy with businesses seeking new staff.
The Construction Innovation Hub is hosting a webinar on Thursday 16 July from 1:00pm ‐ 2:00pm to discuss its new Value Toolkit, which has been developed to help companies measure value, embedding it in their business models to avoid cost minimisation and risk transfer and deliver better outcomes. You can register your place online.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has led the way in setting out a clear plan for the industry with the Roadmap to Recovery. From the commitment to ‘Build Build Build’, publication of the public sector pipeline, changes to the planning system and extended working hours to this week’s support for apprentices, energy‐saving home improvements, and the Construction Talent Retention Scheme, the initial results of the strategy are evident.
Everyone benefits when the whole supply chain works together. If we continue to apply this principle to some of the longstanding issues that hold our industry back, we really can transform construction and deliver affordable, energy‐efficient homes that people want to live in, supported by the social and economic infrastructure the country needs.
The Chancellor’s ‘Plan for Jobs’, which was presented during his Summer Statement on Wednesday, sets out how the Government will support, protect and create jobs as part of the economic recovery. We would encourage every company in construction to play its part by registering your interest for the Talent Retention Scheme ahead of its launch later this month. Developed by the CLC in partnership with Government, the scheme, which will be free to use until April 2021, is based on a proven model in the aerospace and automotive sectors which balances redundancies in companies with recruitment needs in others.
Key announcements by the Chancellor included:
A Job Retention Bonus of £1,000 will be paid to employers who bring back furloughed staff and continue to employ them until at least January 2021
A £2 billion Kickstart Scheme from August 2020 will subsidise new six‐month work placements for people receiving Universal Credit, who are aged between 16 and 24 and at risk of long‐term unemployment
For the next 6 months, employers will receive a grant of between £1,000 and £2,000 for each trainee or apprentice employed in a new role
From September 2020, homeowners in England will be able to apply for vouchers of up to £5,000 for energy‐saving home improvements under the new £2 billion Green Homes Grant scheme.
Build UK has produced a brief report summarising the approaches being taken by its Contractor members with regard to the use of face coverings. Based on the assumption that a risk assessment had been undertaken and any PPE required for particular tasks provided, our snapshot survey requested members’ policies on the provision of face coverings in response to coronavirus.
Construction Industry Coronavirus Forum - Safe Operating Guidance for Scotland
Source - Construction Industry Coronavirus Forum
The guidance document released by the Construction Industry Coronavirus Forum is intended to introduce standardisation on sites of all sizes in line with the Scottish Government and Health Protection Scotland recommendations on the management of COVID-19 and Construction Scotland’s Safe Operating Guidance. Every project should devise a plan considering this guidance, for implementation on site in consultation with all affected parties.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) continues to drive forward its Roadmap to Recovery which sets out a plan to ‘restart, reset and reinvent’ the industry over the next two years. The restart phase includes actions to drive demand for construction work in the public, private and domestic sectors, as well as maximise employment within the industry.
The Chancellor is due to make a statement later today outlining further measures to support the economic recovery. These are expected to implement some of the recommendations in the industry’s Roadmap, supporting the delivery of the Government’s ambition to ‘Build Better, Build Greener and Build Faster’.
The deadline for eligible individuals to claim their first grant under the Self‐Employment Income Support Scheme, worth 80% of their average monthly trading profits for three months up to £7,500, is next Monday 13 July 2020.
Individuals will also be able to claim a second and final grant from 17 August, where they can confirm their business has been adversely affected by coronavirus from 14 July. The second grant will be equivalent to 70% of average monthly trading profits for three months, paid out in a single instalment, capped at £6,570. Individuals will be able to claim for the second grant even if they did not make a claim for the first one.
The CLC has published guidance on obtaining bonds. It is aimed at SMEs, although the principles will be useful for all members of the supply chain, and sets out practical advice and considerations for discussions with brokers when seeking such surety.
Build UK continues to work with Constructionline to measure the impact of coronavirus on the industry and the latest infographic based on data submitted from over 8,600 suppliers reveals that almost half are reporting at least a 20% impact on productivity. 59% of suppliers have suspended operations at some point due to coronavirus, and sites in Scotland remain a particular challenge with 63% of operations still suspended to some degree last week.
Pre‐coronavirus between June 2019 and March 2020, the number of contracts awarded each month averaged 594. June 2020 saw 415 contracts awarded, which was an improvement on the 359 contracts awarded in May, but 30% below the average and 37% less than in June 2019.
The value of contracts awarded in June 2020 fell by 10% to £3.6 billion, compared to May. This is 41% lower than the monthly average of £6.1 billion between June 2019 and March 2020, and 33% below June 2019. As in May, almost half of all the contracts awarded were housing projects (193 projects with a combined value of £1.6 billion). There were then 37 office projects worth £571 million and 56 education projects with a total value of £338 million.
There was a decrease of 24% in the number of tender opportunities, down from 346 in May 2020 to 264 in June 2020. This is 62% below the monthly average of 687 projects available for tender between June 2019 and March 2020 and 70% lower than June 2019.
At present, there are just 205 tender opportunities available until the end of September 2020 according to Builders’ Conference.
The Department for Transport has confirmed that as of 10 July people arriving in England from countries with travel corridor exemption will no longer need to self‐isolate for 14 days, unless they have been in or transited through non‐exempt countries in the preceding 14 days.
HS2 is running weekly webinars for potential suppliers to provide advice on a range of themes, including bidding, sustainability, and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Companies can register for the webinars which are running until mid‐August and view recordings on the HS2 website.
Businesses should continue to follow the most up‐to‐date Government guidance and for the latest updates please follow Build UK on Twitter and LinkedIn.
The Government has set out the local action being taken in Leicester following a surge in coronavirus cases, and there have been a number of queries regarding the implementation of the Site Operating Procedures in areas that may be subject to localised lockdowns. The Site Operating Procedures clearly state that Government guidance must be followed and it is expected that sites will assess the local conditions and respond accordingly, including maintaining the social distancing practices in place prior to the easing of the national lockdown, such as not opening canteens and rigorously enforcing hygiene and cleaning regimes.
Transport for London (TfL) has published a toolkit for the construction sector setting out the latest travel advice for the workforce on sites across London. Employers are being asked to help by:
Encouraging workers to walk or cycle all or part of their journey and providing lockers, showers and storage
Changing operating hours or staggering shifts to avoid the busiest times on the network (05:45 ‐ 08:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30) and ensuring any shifts starting and finishing around these times are allocated to workers who can walk or cycle
Sharing with workers the specific travel advice for areas of concentrated construction, including Vauxhall/Nine Elms, Westminster, City of London, Canary Wharf and Stratford
Reducing and retiming goods and services to and from site to avoid peak times.
TrustMark has launched the Work Safe. Safe Workcampaign to reassure homeowners and occupiers that tradespeople can work safely in their homes. The campaign, which is supported by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) as part of the ‘restart’ phase in the Roadmap to Recovery, has a helpful guide for homeowners on what to do before, during and after work is carried out.
Mandatory MOT testing for car, motorcycle and van owners in England, Scotland and Wales will be reintroduced from 1 August 2020. Vehicles with an MOT due date before 1 August will still have a six‐month exemption if required.
Lorries have been given a further three‐month exemption from getting an MOT and the deadline for completing the test is dependent on when the MOT was originally due:
Driving lessons and theory tests will be restarting in England from 4 July, with driving tests resuming from 22 July.
CITB has announced that the deadline for CITB grant claim applications for the Grant Scheme Year 2019/20 has been extended. Companies will now have until 30 November 2020 to submit claims for training which occurred between 1 April 2019 and 31 March 2020.
Today’s update from CITB includes information on a deadline extension for applications to the current Grant Scheme Year; an update on our advance apprenticeship attendance grants; and news of an extension to the Construction Skills Fund (CSF) scheme, funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and delivered by CITB.
The CSF extension is great news as the fund forms a key part of our Skills Stability Plan to help industry recover. Last week we announced that the Levy payment holiday will continue until September for employers, after which they can opt to pay the 2020/21 Levy spread over the following 12 months. CITB will propose a 50% discount on the 2021/22 Levy, meaning employers pay 18 months out of 24, a reduction of 25% across two years.
Construction Skills Fund extension
This successful scheme that trains learners on live building sites is being extended by 12 months, with an additional £7.5m to be invested, after 14 of the CSF on-site hubs were successful in their bids to CITB.
All training must be completed by 31 March 2021 with 6,000 individuals being trained to be employment- and site-ready and 3,000 in sustained jobs by September 2021.
Since launching in 2018 more than 13,200 learners have passed through CSF learning hubs across the country, emerging employment- and site-ready. A total of 90% of learners were unemployed when they joined the hubs, demonstrating the positive impact being made by CSF.
Advance apprenticeship attendance grants
In March, CITB enabled payment of apprenticeship attendance grants as a short-term measure to help employers with cash-flow issues. Since then this has seen more than £3.7million paid to 1,842 employers, supporting 4,197 apprentices.
This was one of CITB’s first interventions to support the industry, and has played a key role in supporting apprentices and their employers during this difficult time. We are pleased with the response we received to this initiative, which after three months is now closed to new applications.
Grant Scheme Year extension
Given that many employers have either only started to return to work or remain on reduced capacity, we are extending the deadline for grant claim applications for the Grant Scheme Year 2019 / 2020, from 30 June to the end of November 2020. We hope this will ensure employers have every opportunity to access much-needed support for the training they have invested in.
In light of the most recent update to the Site Operating Procedures in England, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you that guidance for Scotland has not changed.
Build UK Daily Update - New Site Operating Procedures (England)
The Site Operating Procedures have been updated by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to reflect the latest Government guidance following the easing of lockdown measures in England from Saturday 4 July. The ‘one metre plus’ social distancing guidelines require workers to stay two metres apart, or one metre with risk mitigation where two metres is not viable, and it is expected that sites will maintain the social distancing measures in place.
Entry systems to be regularly cleaned rather than between each use
Drivers to have access to welfare facilities
Canteens that have been closed or offered a restricted service may now re‐open.
Please note that you may need to refresh your browser cache in order to view the latest version by pressing Ctrl+Shift+R (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+R (Mac).
Other News from Build UK
In a personal call to Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol, Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi confirmed the Government’s commitment to ‘Build Build Build’, bringing forward £5 billion of capital investment projects to support jobs and the economic recovery, alongside radical reforms to the planning system.
Described by the Prime Minister as a ‘New Deal’, the ambition is to build better, greener and faster. Chancellor Rishi Sunak will chair a new taskforce known as Project Speed and the investment in infrastructure will include:
£1.5 billion this year for hospital maintenance
£100 million this year for 29 road projects
Over £1 billion to fund the first 50 projects of a new ten‐year school rebuilding programme, starting from 2020‐21
£560 million and £200 million this year for repairs and upgrades to schools and FE colleges respectively
£142 million for digital upgrades and maintenance to around 100 courts, £83 million for maintenance of prisons and youth offender facilities, and £60 million for temporary prison places
£900 million for a range of ‘shovel ready’ local growth projects in England over the course of this year and next, as well as £96 million to accelerate investment in town centres and high streets through the Towns Fund.
New planning regulations will enable existing commercial properties, including newly vacant shops, to be converted into new homes. These will be supported by a package of measures, including a £12 billion affordable homes programme supporting up to 180,000 new affordable homes over the next eight years and a £450 million boost for the Home Builders Fund to help smaller developers and support around 7,200 new homes.
Build UK is delighted to welcome this commitment to an infrastructure revolution, which supports the CLC Roadmap to Recovery and offers the opportunity to create connected communities and a sustainable industry.
‘Flexible furloughing’ comes into effect as part of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme today, allowing employers to bring furloughed employees back to work for any number of hours/shift pattern, whilst still claiming grant for the hours not worked. Flexible furloughing agreements must be for a minimum of one week and confirmed in writing. Detailed guidance is available for employers, along with an online calculator to help with working out claims.
The deadline for submitting claims for furlough periods ending on or before 30 June is 31 July 2020. If you have overclaimed through the scheme, you can repay your grant by either correcting it in your next claim or making a payment to HMRC if you are not making another claim.
Today we share with you our Skills Stability Plan 2020/21 and our plans for collecting the Levy over the next two years.
We all know that construction has been, and is being, re-shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst we won’t understand its full impact for some time, it’s clear that there are significant challenges in getting started again, adapting to new ways of working and training, completing apprenticeships and updating skills. Our plan for this year is to target support that is easy to access on these key challenges.
Skills Stability Plan 2020-21
The Skills Stability Plan outlines our work for this financial year and sees us protect apprenticeships, the Grants Scheme and direct employer funding despite the fact that we will only collect £74m of levy this year - just over a third of normal levels.
We have made significant reductions in our cost base and are utilising our reserves to make sure we provide the highest level of support right now, directly to employers. We will continue to identify and action additional cost reduction.
Direct funding for employers is prioritised through the Skills and Training Funds, with £8m earmarked for small and micro businesses, £3.5m for medium-sized businesses, with a £3m Leadership and Management Fund for large firms. This will help employers train to adapt to the new working environment and update the skills of their workforce.
Protecting apprenticeships is critically important because they are the future of the industry.
We have put together a package of measures to keep as many apprentices in the industry as possible, from grant support, to remote learning opportunities, through to helping them find new employment if they are made redundant.
CITB will work with other industry partners to support workers who have lost their jobs or seen their apprenticeship disrupted, matching them with a new employer, including through exploring a talent retention scheme. It’s essential we do everything we can to support talented people at the start of their careers and support the businesses who employ them.
Levy Collection 2020-22
CITB does not have the legal power to simply cut this year’s Levy. We had hoped to do this, but doing so requires government legislation intervention and that wasn’t possible within the timeframe. Instead, we are implementing measures to reduce levy payments for employers and delay collection this year, as far as we are able.
We are going to extend the current payment holiday until September, and then give Levy-payers the option to spread their payments over up to 12 months until August 2021. Next year, we are proposing to Government a 50% cut in Levy bills, delaying collection until September ‘21, with option to spread payments over six months, up to February ‘22. Taken together, these measures mean that employers will pay 25% less across two years, with a payment holiday now when industry needs it most. An employer whose usual Levy bill is £1,200 per year will now pay £1,800 over two years.
Engagement with Industry
We have confirmed with the Department for Education that we will not run the usual Consensus process and instead we will speak to employers and industry groups to seek their views on our plans for next year. This will allow us to focus our efforts entirely on supporting industry and will not place any more burden on employers and partners right now.
Finally, please note that from next week, these twice-weekly briefings will be reduced to one per week, though of course we will continue to communicate all essential information whenever necessary.
Support Documents
CITB has produced a range of checklists and forms to ensure those who are permitted and able to return to work have a clear understanding of how they can apply the CLC’s latest COVID-19 site operating procedures guidance in practice.
Build UK partner Timewise hasproduced an infographic outlining the priorities of ‘Improving Flexible Working in Construction’, its one‐year programme aimed at changing behaviours and cultures to promote workforce diversity. Timewise will be hosting awebinar on Thursday 2 July from 2:00pm ‐ 3:30pm featuring Helen Wood, BAM Construct Senior HR Project Lead and Timewise pioneer, who will explore different ways teams can work during the crisis.
Build UK is supporting the London Progression Collaboration (LPC) Reskilling the Recovery programme, which is aiming to help more than 1,000 Londoners embark on an apprenticeship by enabling large companies to transfer their unused Apprenticeship Levy funds to local SMEs. The programme has raised more than £850,000 to date, and Build UK members with projects in London can find out more and make sure their unspent Levy is put to good use.
CITB sets out plan to support sector’s skills-based recovery as Levy bills cut
Source - Build UK
Following extensive discussions with the Department for Education (DfE), CITB has announced the following in relation to the CITB Levy:
Whilst required by law to collect the Levy in full this year, CITB will not begin taking payments until September 2020, after deferring it from May
Employers will have the option to spread their payments over 12 months until August 2021
CITB will propose to Government that next year’s Levy is reduced by 50% and collected over six months from September 2021 to March 2022
The DfE will grant a new Levy Order without requiring the full Consensus process to be undertaken this year.
The amount of Levy collected will drop by £166 million over the next two years, which will have a significant impact on the industry and further information is contained in the CITB Skills Stability Plan.
The Prime Minister hasannounced further changes to lockdown measures in England from Saturday 4 July 2020. This will include allowing people to keep a social distance of ‘one metre plus’ where it is not possible to stay two metres apart, provided that mitigation measures are in place to reduce the risk of transmission. The Government is publishing guidance for businesses, and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is already reviewing the Site Operating Procedures which will be updated to reflect the new requirements.
Build UK is working with Constructionline to measure the impact of coronavirus on the industry, which you can see in a new infographic based on data submitted from almost 8,000 suppliers. The biggest challenge is continuity of work and the three main things that would help suppliers are outstanding invoices to be paid (38%), a relaxation of project deadlines (28%), and shorter payment terms (24%). An incredible 99% of companies operating on site are adopting the Site Operating Procedures.
The data from Constructionline also indicates that an increasing number of sites in Scotland are resuming work after the Scottish Government confirmed that the industry could move to Phase 3 of the Construction Re‐Start Plan. The Scottish Construction Industry Coronavirus Forum has released an updated version of its Site Operating Procedures clarifying that Health Protection Scotland does not recommend the wearing of face masks or undertaking temperature testing at work. An announcement on any changes to social distancing in Scotland is expected to be made next week.
The Scottish Government has launched a £230 million Return to Work package to help stimulate Scotland’s economy following coronavirus. Construction has been allocated £78 million, including £40 million for regeneration projects and £20 million for roads maintenance.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol joined Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi, Dame Judith Hackitt and Mark Reynolds of Mace for the LetsBuild ‘Virtual Town Hall’ yesterday to discuss the CLC’s Roadmap to Recovery. The Minister praised the CLC for its ‘incredibly impressive’ work immediately after the lockdown, and in particular for developing the Site Operating Procedures so quickly. He confirmed that the Government is looking for a stronger and more sustainable construction industry building on the momentum it has achieved over the last few months.
The Minister also hosted the latest industry conference call yesterday, demonstrating his continued support for construction and emphasising the Government’s focus on net zero carbon and modern methods of construction in future projects funded by the public sector. He also confirmed the Government’s commitment to the Brexit deadline and that no extension to the Transition Period will be sought.
In construction, we miss out on talent and the benefits a more diverse workforce brings because people don’t see it as a career of choice, and this includes a failure to attract more women.
CITB eCourses
We are committed to working with you to provide the skills and training needed, now and into the future. To meet industry needs, and in response to research conducted before the current crisis, CITB has launched an online eLearning solution – CITB eCourses.
These allow employees, unable to access traditional training, to learn at their own pace, anytime, anywhere. All you need is a computer and a few hours to study and take the exam.
Tutor-led training will continue to be the main delivery method, with eCourses providing an additional option ensuring that qualifications are not a barrier to your business or getting back to work.
The first eCourse available is our Site Safety Plus: Health & Safety Awareness course, which can be used to support applications for the CSCS labourer’s card, once the course and exam have been successfully completed.
Our network of Site Safety Plus training providers continue to offer a full suite of SSP courses, with classroom and remote delivery options available. For a list of courses and providers you can use the course locator tool.
Surveys of Employers and Training Providers
In May and June, CITB spoke to 552 employers of all sizes from across the sector, as well as 249 training providers.
Amid the pandemic, 77% of construction companies still regard retaining and recruiting skilled staff as a priority, with 34% planning to take on new apprentices in the next 12 months and 73% were confident their apprentices will complete training. We will continue to work with companies to help them see as many apprentices as possible complete their apprenticeship and play their part in the skilled construction workforce.
Remote training is also being delivered by 55% of providers, while more than 2,500 learners have completed Site Safety Plus courses this way. A total of 49% of providers were extremely confident of restarting a full training programme, with 31% somewhat confident.
These findings show the impact COVID-19 has had on the sector and that a lot of support will be needed in future. CITB has taken several significant measures so far to help industry. We will announce the next phase later this week in our Skills Stability Plan.
International Women in Engineering Day
To help mark International Women in Engineering Day today I’d like to introduce you to Mimi-Isabella Nwosu and Tolu Egberongbe, role models who tell their story of why construction is such an exciting and ever-changing industry to work in. Embedding Fairness, Inclusion and Respect is not only right for industry, in having a more inclusive, representative, and productive workforce, but it’s also better for business.
The Cabinet Office has released a new Procurement Policy Note, PPN 04/20 ‐ Recovery and Transition from COVID‐19, which extends the relief available to public sector suppliers under PPN 02/20 ‐ Supplier Relief due to COVID‐19 until 31 October 2020. PPN 04/20 applies to all contracting authorities, including central Government departments, executive agencies, non‐departmental public bodies, local authorities, NHS bodies and the wider public sector, which must ‘continue to pay suppliers as quickly as possible, on receipt of invoices or in accordance with pre‐agreed milestone dates, to maintain cash flow and protect jobs’.
The Scottish Government has also issued a new Scottish Procurement Policy Note, SPPN 8/2020 ‐ Recovery and Transition from COVID‐19. It will come into effect on 1 July and is supplementary to SPPN 5/2020 ‐ Supplier Relief, which has been extended beyond its initial expiry date of 30 June although the new expiry date is not specified.
The VAT payment deferral period will end on 30 June 2020. Any VAT payments deferred between 20 March and 30 June should be paid in full on or before 31 March 2021. For VAT payments due from 1 July, companies should make sure they are ready by:
Setting up cancelled direct debits in enough time for HMRC to take payment
Ensuring VAT returns are submitted as normal and on time
Paying the VAT in full on payments due after 30 June.
The Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme allows employers with fewer than 250 employees to apply to HMRC to recover the costs of paying coronavirus‐related SSP. Employers can claim for periods of sickness covering up to two weeks starting on or after:
13 March 2020 ‐ if their employee(s) had coronavirus or symptoms, or was self‐isolating because someone they live with had symptoms
16 April 2020 ‐ if their employee(s) was shielding because of coronavirus
28 May 2020 ‐ if their employee(s) has been notified by the NHS or public health bodies that they have come into contact with someone with coronavirus.
The Government has published guidance on submitting a claim via the online service and there is currently no indication when the scheme will close.
CITB is continually reviewing training provision in light of coronavirus and has recently confirmed that:
The National Construction Colleges at Bircham Newton, Erith and Kings Norton will be reopening and taking a phased approach to resuming face‐to‐face from 6 July. NCC apprentices will be contacted directly to confirm the restart of their training. The Inchinnan training centre in Scotland will remain closed until further notice.
Following positive feedback, the remote delivery of Site Safety Plus courses will continue until at least 31 December 2020. Companies can find a course using the CITB Course Locator.
I'm sure you'll all have been affected by the worldwide campaigns calling for greater equality across our society over the past few weeks - there continue to be a number of inspiring voices on this topic. Diversity is an issue many of us are passionate about and as an industry we need to address - not only because it is the right thing to strive for, but an inclusive society and a more diverse workforce is better for all of us, including better for business.
Economic times are incredibly tough, but we have supported the development of a number of free resources for businesses to find out more and take action. These include the great Fairness, Inclusion and Respect materials available on the Supply Chain Sustainability School website and the Be Fair Framework on our website.
There are also strong examples of people from diverse backgrounds flourishing in our industry, which we were able to show as part of Future Made. These inspirational people show us how our sector is changing, but they also challenge us to do more to encourage the development of all that potential.
The Construction Skills Fund (CSF) is a project which seeks to recognise and tap into the potential of people from non-traditional backgrounds and supports them as they move into the industry. Of more than 13,200 learners who have emerged Employment Site Ready (ESR) to date, over 7,000 are from groups which have traditionally been under-represented – including females, people with disabilities, and people from black and minority ethnic heritage.
An open to all, diverse industry will be needed to make sure that we recover from the impact of COVID-19. Encouraging diversity will be a major consideration as we review our funding options in the coming months.
CLC People Survey
It’s essential that individuals and companies of all sizes are given the opportunity and information to help identify the immediate areas for action. And that we have good sources of data to help direct Government, CITB and all other channels to the right areas. That’s why it’s great that so many people, across the whole industry provided feedback to the CLC’s People Survey which was published this week.
We are also grateful to all of our customers that have engaged in our surveys since the beginning of the pandemic. Next week we will share more details about the results of our customer voice and training provider research.
On Thursday 25 June, CITB will update on details about the Levy, consensus and the measures we are taking to support apprentices and the wider skilled workforce.
Update on Recent Support Measures
Site Safety Plus (SSP)
We’re pleased to have been able to provide support to training providers and employers. Since the launch of remote delivery and re-introduction of classroom courses, 3,600 delegates have been accredited following successful completion of an SSP course – a rise of over 1,000 in the last week alone. For a full list of the centres delivering tutor led training use the course locator tool.
Test Centres
All Pearson VUE centres in England have now re-opened, with Internet Test Centres (ITCs) also gradually becoming operational. We are continually reviewing Government advice with our partners to re-establish testing in Scotland and Wales. The latest information and updates on test delivery can be found here.
To date we have allocated over £350k to successful applicants who have met the criteria of the Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium-sized businesses, launched on 1 April. In the coming months we look forward to approving more and we will provide updates on this fund following each award cycle.
Welcoming Pupils, Teachers and Families Into Construction
Due to the recent need for families to stay indoors, we’ve been holding Minecraft competitions for households to work together and experience the range of exciting careers involved in construction.
The Go Construct Buildathon saw school pupils aged 5-12 undertake the virtual building work, but with families working together during the design stage instead of classmates. We’ve had some great entries which began shortly after lockdown in April and runs until July. It has provided great opportunities for families to learn together just how exciting and varied careers in construction can be. You can find more details here.
Support Documents
CITB has produced a range of checklists and forms to ensure those who are permitted and able to return to work have a clear understanding of how they can apply the CLC’s latest COVID-19 site operating procedures guidance in practice.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that the construction industry can move to Phase 3 of the Construction Re‐Start Plan, known as ‘steady state operation’, from next Monday 22 June. As in phase 2, work can only be carried out where physical distancing can be maintained, and it is anticipated that 30% ‐ 40% of the original workforce will be able to be accommodated on site during phase 3. The Scottish Government has also confirmed that face coverings will be mandatory on public transport in Scotland from Monday and house moves can recommence from 29 June.
Transport for London (TfL) has written to its supply chain to encourage construction workers to free up limited space on public transport by walking or cycling to site unless unable to do so. Companies are being asked to help by providing facilities on site, including lockers, showers and cycle storage. For those construction workers who must use public transport, TfL is requesting that they avoid peak times (05:45 ‐ 08:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30) and busy interchanges, and consider whether they could start or end their journey using quieter stations.
TfL has highlighted its work with Build UK, which resulted in Thames Clippers resuming services on a temporary timetable. Thames Clippers are also now introducing a ‘Park and Glide’ service, which will allow commuters to park their cars at The O2 and then take a clipper into London.
The Mayor of London has confirmed that construction vehicles will have a six-month exemption from implementing the next stages (Stages IIIB and IV) of the Non‐Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM) Low Emission Zone when it comes into effect on 1 September 2020. This means that all construction machinery will now have until 1 March 2021 to meet the requirements.
The results of the cross‐industry ‘People Survey’, carried out by Build UK on behalf of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) earlier this month, provide valuable information to support the implementation of the industry’s Roadmap to Recovery.
Retaining Talent in Construction reveals an anticipated reduction of 9.9% in the construction workforce by September. In the longer term, 43% of respondents expect to make redundancies, with up to 20% of their workforce being affected. 6.7% of apprentices are likely to lose their jobs by September, and 60% of respondents are looking to take on fewer apprentices at the next intake.
This new short‐term pipeline details 340 contracts across more than 260 projects and programmes, with an estimated value of up to £37 billion over the next year. It details when a project or programme is expected to go out to tender, the estimated value of each contract, and the expected award date. It is also separated into work packages for larger projects where the information is available. The Government is planning to publish a full National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline later this year to provide longer term visibility.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol will be joining Construction Minister Nadhim Zahawi, Dame Judith Hackitt, and Mark Reynolds from Mace at the next LetsBuild ‘Virtual Town Hall’ on Tuesday 23 June from 10.00am ‐ 11:30am to discuss the Roadmap to Recovery and the future for the construction industry post‐coronavirus. To join the webinar, you will need to register via the LetsBuild website.
With businesses across the sector looking at redundancies, Build UK partner Citation has developed a redundancy starter checklist covering the key things a company will need to think about before embarking on the process. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has also produced redundancy factsheets for both employers and employees (a Welsh version is also available) setting out the support available.
The CLC has published Trade Credit Insurance Guidance to provide practical advice for the construction supply chain when discussing Trade Credit Insurance with brokers and insurers. It is designed to support the Government’s Trade Credit Reinsurance Scheme, which will provide £10 billion of Government guarantees to Trade Credit Insurance to stop cover being withdrawn or premiums increasing to unaffordable levels.
Further to the legislation and guidance I sent you earlier in the week, please see below specific legislation and guidance for devolved administrations:
The key difference to guidance for England – the fine for the first offence (failing to self-isolate) is £480 instead of £1000. Exemptions (for those staying in Scotland) do not include Frontier Workers, Healthcare workers (in relation to non-covid healthcare).
Source - Charles Waterlow - HR Consultant for CFA Members
On Friday, HMRC released details of the flexible furlough scheme, which starts on 1 July 2020. Under the flexible furlough scheme, employees no longer need to avoid doing any work for the employer, but can work for some of the week and be furloughed for the rest, in proportions decided between employee and employer.
The most significant change is that the minimum three week period for furlough has been removed (as of 1 July 2020). There is no minimum period, although any claim through the CJRS portal must be in respect of a minimum one week period (ie employers can only put in four claims a month, not 31).
Broadly, from 1 July, employers will claim a pro rata'd amount of 80% of salary, based on the proportion of hours not worked out of normal working hours. To calculate the normal working hours for those with fixed hours/pay, you simply take the number of hours worked in the pay period before 19 March 2020. To calculate the normal working hours for those with variable pay, you take the higher of (a) the average number of hours worked in the tax year 2019 to 2020 or (b) the corresponding calendar period in the tax year 2019 to 2020.
The Government has updated its guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which confirms how the scheme will change from 1 July 2020 to provide for ‘flexible furloughing’:
Employers can only furlough an employee who has previously been furloughed prior to 30 June. The exception is employees returning from statutory maternity and paternity leave, provided that their employer has previously furloughed other employees
Employers can bring furloughed employees back to work for any amount of time and on any work pattern while still claiming grant for the hours not worked. Flexible furlough agreements must be for a minimum of one week, and employees can enter into a flexible furlough agreement more than once
Employers must confirm in writing with employees and keep records of how many hours employees work and the number of hours they are furloughed
If an employee is flexible furloughed over two different calendar months, a separate claim must be submitted for each month
From 1 August, employers will have to contribute towards the cost of furloughed employees’ wages.
When making a claim, employers will need to provide the number of hours an employee would have usually worked as well as the number of hours they actually worked, and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme calculator has been updated to assist in working out claim amounts for flexible furloughing.
Although the focus in recent months has been on coronavirus, the Government is also continuing to prepare for Brexit and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove confirmed on Friday that the Transition Period will end on 31 December 2020 and no extension will be sought.
From January to July 2021, border controls for EU goods imported into Great Britain will be introduced in stages to give businesses affected by coronavirus more time to prepare. The new UK Global Tariff (UKGT) will replace the EU’s Common External Tariff from 1 January and there will be changes to customs requirements, tariffs, and checks at entry ports. Companies are advised to identify the materials and products that they, and their supply chains, import and the implications of the new requirements.
Build UK is supporting the London Progression Collaboration (LPC), which is aiming to help more than 1,000 Londoners embark on an apprenticeship. Its Reskilling the Recovery programme enables large companies to transfer their unused Apprenticeship Levy funds to local SMEs. A number of Build UK members have already contributed and a total of over £600,000 has now been donated to date. Employers keen to put their unspent Levy to good use can find out more and register with LPC.
The Scottish First Minister announced yesterday that the construction sector will be now be allowed to move to Phase 2 in its restart plan. This will include work carried out in domestic properties. The industry-agreed six-step phased model for the return of the construction sector is as follows:
Phase 0: Planning
Phase 1: Covid-19 Pre-start Site prep
Phase 2: ‘Soft start’ to site works (only where physical distancing can be maintained)
Phase 3: Steady state operation (only where physical distancing can be maintained)
Phase 4: Steady state operation (where physical distancing can be maintained and/or with PPE use)
Phase 5: Increasing density/productivity with experience
The latest announcement, moving to Phase 2 of the plan provides an opportunity for businesses to return to site work on a “soft-start” basis. It also allows businesses to undertake all forms of work in domestic properties.
To provide further assistance to those who will work on sites, Construction Scotland has issued a guide entitled “Working on site during the COVID-19 pandemic: Construction Guidance and you can see a copy by clicking here.
The CICV Forum (which SCG is an active member of) has developed more detailed guidance on health and safety and this can be viewed here.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that the construction industry can move to Phase 2 of the Construction Re‐Start Plan, known as the ‘soft start’, which allows a slow build‐up of the workforce on construction sites and in domestic properties where physical distancing can be maintained. Comprehensive guidance for the construction sector on a Safe return and restart has been published which clearly states that, if an activity cannot be undertaken safely, it should not take place.
Build UK has published an executive summary of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery to give members and the wider industry an overview of the new strategy for the sector. It details the three key phases of ‘restart, reset and reinvent’ and the key outcomes the sector is looking to achieve.
You can find out more about how the industry will be implementing the Roadmap by catching up on the Building webinar which took place earlier this week. Featuring Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol alongside fellow CLC members, Andy Mitchell (Co‐Chair) and Fergus Harradence (BEIS Deputy Director for Construction), the webinar was attended by over 560 guests and explored a range of issues, including apprenticeships, technology and innovation, and Brexit.
From next Monday (15 June) face coverings will be mandatory on public transport in England to help reduce the risk of transmission of coronavirus when social distancing is not always possible. A face covering is a simple cloth that covers your nose and mouth, and the Government has published guidance on How to wear and make a cloth face covering. Anyone using public transport who does not wear a face covering could receive a fine.
Wherever possible, people should continue to work from home and avoid public transport, and the Government has published Safer travel guidance for passengers. Transport for London (TfL) is encouraging passengers who must travel to consider walking or cycling as part of their journey, or getting off a stop or two early to reduce numbers on Tubes and buses.
Next Monday will also see Thames Clippers resuming services for passengers on a temporary timetable. Services will run between 6:00am and 9:00pm on weekdays and between 9:30am and 7:30pm on weekends, with park and ride available from the O2 for £8 per day for Thames Clippers customers. All passengers will be required to maintain social distancing, wear a face covering and pay by contactless, and the on‐board café will reopen for takeaway service only.
Government has received further guidance on the new Border and self-quarantine measures.
They advise businesses to read the legislation and then the Exemption Letter Guidance (attached)
The attached (which contains links to complete information on gov.uk) and Annex B (a list of exemptions) will help you decide whether or not your workers/contractors should qualify for an exemption i.e. it is for you/ your members to consider as we cannot advise individual businesses.
Where businesses think exemptions do apply, businesses should then produce a letter (Annex A of the attachment) for the employee/contractor to show on arrival in the UK.
Build UK Contractor members have reported this week that almost all of their sites in England and Wales are now open, with 97% of infrastructure and construction sites operating, up from 93% a fortnight ago. Output continues to rise slowly, with infrastructure sites achieving 89%, up from 85%, and construction sites improving from 74% to 78%.
Members that include housing in their portfolios have confirmed that 93% of housing sites in England and Wales are now open, up from 68% a month ago, with output rising from 53% to 78% during that period.
The situation in Scotland remains very different, with just 21% of projects running and output at 27%. The Scottish Government is currently implementing Phase 1 of its COVID‐19 route map through and out of the crisis, which aligns to Phases 0 and 1 of the Construction Re‐Start Plan developed to get the industry back to work safely.
Phase 2 of the Construction Re‐Start Plan is known as the ‘soft start’, which will see work that can be carried out within physical distancing parameters resumed. However, the industry has been told that it can only move to this phase a minimum of two weeks after publication of the updated guidance for the sector on 28 May, which means that tomorrow (11 June) is the earliest that there could be an update on when sites might be able to open.
As the country continues to move out of lockdown with more businesses re‐opening offices and other premises, Build UK Trade Association member, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), has produced guidance which includes information for building owners, landlords and tenants on reactivating buildings to get them safely back online.
The Environment Agency (EA) has published a Regulatory Position Statement allowing operators who hold environmental permits to temporarily store more waste than their permit allows, provided that they can demonstrate a need due to COVID‐19 restrictions and that the wastes being stored are authorised under the permit.
National Construction Colleges (NCCs) in England to Reopen and Resume Face-to-Face Training in July
CITB has been carefully monitoring the evolving COVID-19 position and the information which is being regularly issued from the UK Government. Based on the guidance which has recently been made available, the NCCs at Bircham Newton, Erith and Kings Norton have made the decision to restart face-to-face training in England.
Our priority will continue to be learner and colleague safety, therefore we will start to deliver training through a phased approach, with pilot courses initially being offered from July onwards. We will continue to monitor and review our procedures to ensure that the appropriate level of safety is maintained.
For NCC apprentices, we will be making direct contact with them in the coming weeks to confirm the restart of their learning.
For those looking to train at our Inchinnan training centre in Scotland, we are continuing to monitor the Scottish Government advice and will provide further updates, but for now the college remains closed.
For more information about the reopening of NCC centres please call the team on 0344 994 4433.
Testing Centres
All Pearson Professional Centres in England delivering the Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test have reopened with the relevant social distancing precautions and safety measures in place, details of which can be seen here.
A total of 67 Internet Test Centres (ITCs) have also resumed testing in England, having implemented the relevant measures.We are aware that a number of training providers have resumed offering face-to-face training in England whilst adhering to the relevant COVID-19 Government guidelines.
CITB and partner organisations continue to act in line with the Scottish and Welsh governments’ COVID-19 regulations and guidance.
Partnerships Team – who to contact
We are trying to balance wherever possible the customer service that is required at the moment, with a need to reduce costs and like many businesses currently, are making use of the Job Retention Scheme, whilst demand is low. This will mean that colleagues that you normally deal with may not be available.
If your current contact has been furloughed, alternative details will be provided on their Out of Office email message. We appreciate this isn’t ideal but hope you’ll bear with us, as a higher number of colleagues have recently been furloughed at relatively short notice.
The Treasury has announced that the introduction of Reverse Charge VAT will be delayed for a further five months until 1 March 2021. An action within the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery, the delay was called for by a coalition of industry bodies, including Build UK, and is welcome news for the industry.
From today, new quarantine rules apply for those entering the UK and individuals will have to self‐isolate for 14 days on arrival. There is a list of very specific roles that are exempt, including road hauliers; those carrying out essential emergency and maintenance work on water, sewerage, electrical or rail networks; and workers with specialist skills that ensure the continued production of goods. Those who live in the UK but travel overseas for work at least once a week will also be exempt.
The Government has confirmed that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will close to new entrants from 30 June 2020, and this Wednesday 10 June is the final date by which an employer can furlough an employee for the first time in order for the minimum 3‐week furlough period to be completed by the deadline.
Following the publication of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC’s) Roadmap to Recovery, Build UK met with Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State at the Department for Transport, to discuss its pipeline of projects and accelerating their delivery where appropriate.
Both the Prime Minister and Business Secretary have been clear that infrastructure is a key component of the recovery. The dynamic approach taken by the industry over the last few months, which has ‘kept the wheels of the economy moving’, has shown that there is an opportunity to address some of the long‐standing frustrations with current procurement processes.
With responsibility for HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail and the Transpennine Upgrade, Minister Stephenson confirmed that the Government is focussed on the delivery of major projects and is keen to work with the industry to understand how the UK can deliver infrastructure more efficiently and support the ‘levelling up’ of the regions.
The Roadmap to Recovery, which is the industry’s three‐phase plan to ‘restart, reset, and reinvent’ the sector, includes something for everyone, wherever they are in the supply chain. It will require a combination of ’big ticket’ items and ‘quick wins‘, all of which will need the whole industry to pull together, bringing to mind Jonny Wilkinson, the fly‐half for the England Rugby World Cup team in 2003, who said “I only get the points because I have team‐mates who do the work and put me in the position to get them”. By building on the trust that has been developed between the CLC, Government and industry, combining our efforts, and getting behind ‘Team Construction’, we can achieve the better industry we all want to see.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol will be discussing the Roadmap to Recovery as part of a webinar hosted by Building magazine next Tuesday 9 June from 2:00pm ‐ 3:00pm. It will also feature fellow CLC members, Andy Mitchell (Co-Chair) and Fergus Harradence (BEIS Deputy Director for Construction) and you can register online now.
Build UK members continue to share examples and information on how they are implementing theSite Operating Procedures and Government guidance on Working Safely during Coronavirus (COVID‐19). Any queries on the information should be directed to the relevant member and, if you have similar examples you would like to share, please contact Build UK.
Today’s email looks at supporting mental health as construction gets back to work, an update on CITB’s support measures for industry during COVID-19 and a reminder of the documents available to you to support a safe return to site, where possible.
Mental Health
As sites reopen in these different circumstances, not everyone will be comfortable talking about mental health at work. The Lighthouse Club, a charity dedicated to the wellbeing of construction workers and their families, has a helpline and has created an app which you can download here.
Update on Recent Support Measures
Site Safety Plus
We’re pleased to have been able to provide support to training providers and employers. A total of 1,821 delegates have been accredited using remote delivery and have now successfully completed their Site Safety Plus course – an increase of over 56% in a week. There has also been a further increase in Site Safety Plus training centres delivering remote learning since our last update – 98 in total. For a full list of the centres delivering remotely use the course locator tool.
Test Centres
We are continuing to work on the re-establishment of Health, Safety and Environment testing operations in England. The majority of Pearson VUE centres have now re-opened, with Internet Test Centres also gradually becoming operational. We are continually reviewing Government advice with our partners to re-establish testing in Scotland and Wales. The latest information and updates on test delivery can be found here.
The new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on 1 April. To date we have allocated over £350k to successful applicants.
Support Documents
CITB has produced a range of checklists and forms to ensure those who are permitted and able to return to work have a clear understanding of how they can apply the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) latest COVID-19 site operating procedures guidance in practice.
The CFA has organised a FREE webinar for members on Wednesday 10 June starting at 10:00am, lasting no more than an hour.
The webinar will cover employment matters relating the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and bringing people back from furlough including:
How do I need to treat holidays?
What if someone is reluctant to return?
Can I bring people back part time?
When do I need to make changes to contracts of employment?
If I have no choice, can I make someone redundant whilst on furlough?
Charles Waterlow, a highly experienced HR professional, will answer all these questions and more including ideas and options to consider before redundancy.
Build UK joined the latest industry conference call with Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi yesterday, where he confirmed that Government is backing the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery. He said that:“it is the beginning of a long journey but by working together we should see a robust construction sector emerging from this crisis”.
Business Ministers are in discussions with the Treasury about further support for the industry. This is anticipated to cover a combination of fiscal and non‐fiscal incentives, including direct investment in infrastructure, which will all be geared towards a ‘net zero’ future.
The clear support for construction from Government is welcome news, particularly in light of the latest information from Build UK partner Builders' Conference on contracts awarded and tender opportunities, which shows the significant impact of coronavirus on the industry.
Pre‐coronavirus between May 2019 and March 2020, the number of contracts awarded each month averaged 608. This fell to 524 contracts in April 2020 and just 359 contracts in May 2020. This is 41% below the average and a decrease of 52% compared to May 2019.
Following the spike in the value of contracts awarded in April 2020 due to two extremely large infrastucture contracts, the value awarded in May 2020 dropped by 60% to £3.9 billion. This is 35% lower than the monthly average of £6 billion between May 2019 and March 2020, and 24% below May 2019. Almost half of all the contracts awarded were housing projects (171 projects with a total value of £1.8 billion).
Today’s email includes news of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC)-led Recovery plan, which was launched yesterday. This is a comprehensive staged plan, to ensure industry ‘Restarts’ safely from the COVID-19 crisis and then plans to ‘Reinvent’ in the future, becoming a more productive industry. Skills and training will play a key role.
As sites reopen, and training gradually resumes, there is also an update on the future of our support measure to pay apprenticeship attendance grants in advance, during the crisis.
CLC – Roadmap to Recovery
The plan was published yesterday and was the product of a highly collaborative effort from a wide range of industry representatives, including CITB. It is designed to ensure that there is an even and sustainable recovery for construction, as a cornerstone of the economy.
As well as the safe return to work, the retention of skills and people are a key focus in the immediate stages. CITB will continue to target support to those areas, as well as building the skills development for the future. The plan covers the need ensure apprentices are able to continue their training, strengthening the pathways into apprenticeships and employment within the industry. It goes on to cover the need to further enable digital technologies to transform the sector, making sure training and qualifications are available to support this.
We welcome the plan and the industry wide engagement to produce it and look forward to working with industry partners to continue to put it into action.
If you want to input and be part of shaping the industry and supporting plans going forward, please help the CLC by completing this short, anonymised People Survey before Friday 5 June. The objective is to collect high level, cross industry data on the impact of Coronavirus on employment levels that can be used by the Construction Leadership Council to inform the actions under the Roadmap to Recovery. All information provided is confidential and cannot be attributed to individual companies.
Advance Apprenticeship Grants
Since March, CITB has been paying, in advance, apprenticeship attendance grants for current second and third year apprentices to help keep skills in the construction industry amid the COVID-19 crisis. This was one of several ways that CITB has been relieving cash flow pressure on employers, including the suspension of levy collection.
These advance attendance payments will continue to be available for current second and third year apprentices but, we will not be able to extend this emergency support measure for those current first year apprentices entering their second year. The usual Grant funding and other support will of course continue.
Apprenticeship programme response to the COVID-19 guidance V5
Source - ESFA
There is new information on which apprentices should be prioritised in the offer of face-to-face training in line with the Prime Minister’s announcement that further education settings can broaden the number of 16-19 learners attending on-site delivery from 15th June.
The guidance covers apprentices returning to work and states that remote training should remain the predominant mode of learning for most apprentices.
There is also greater clarity on apprentices returning to undertake EPA within assessment centres.
For apprentices returning to train in an education setting:
the number of FE learners attending at any one time is limited to a quarter of those on the first year of a two-year 16-19 study programme
apprenticeship training taking place in educational settings should also be prioritised for 16-19 apprentices. We support offering face-to-face contact to any 16-19 apprentice
providers can choose to allow apprentices who are over 19 to attend
EPA flexibility for Functional Skills Qualifications (FSQs)
The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education has put in place a new temporary flexibility that enables apprentices to take EPA ahead of receiving their calculated FSQ results later on in the summer.
The flexibility enables apprentices, who would otherwise be stuck at gateway pending their FSQ, to pass through gateway and take their EPA.
This flexibility, which has immediate effect, applies to:
all apprentices due to take an FSQ test and receive a result in the period between 20 March and 31 July
those apprentices that are deemed by their training provider to have the required level of functional skills and sufficient evidence to demonstrate this to receive a calculated FSQ pass
occupationally competent apprentices at gateway who are ready to progress to sit their EPA
This temporary measure supports qualifying apprentices to complete their EPA without undue delay.
Apprentices will only achieve their apprenticeship once they have passed EPA and received their FSQ pass.
Training providers will therefore be expected to provide prompt confirmation of the apprentice’s FSQ calculated results to EPAOs once these have been awarded.
New measures at the UK border to protect against a second wave of the pandemic will be introduced from 8 June 2020. These new measures may affect materials or products being imported for use in construction. Road haulage and freight workers will be exempt from the 14 days of self-isolation.
Chancellor extends Self-Employment Support Scheme and confirms furlough next steps
Source - GOV.UK
On Frdiay May 29, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced Self-Employment Income Support Scheme has been extended - with those eligible able to claim a second and final grant capped at £6,570
The Chancellor also outlined further details on the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, including improved flexibility to bring furloughed employees back part time in July, and a new taper requiring employers to contribute modestly to furloughed salaries from August
Those eligible under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), which has so far seen 2.3 million claims worth £6.8 billion will be able to claim a second and final grant in August. The grant will be worth 70% of their average monthly trading profits, paid out in a single instalment covering three months’ worth of profits, and capped at £6,570 in total.
The Chancellor also set out more details on how the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will continue to support jobs and business as people return to work, following the announcement of an extension of the scheme on 12 May.
To read all Governemnt help set out by the Chancellor click here
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will publish its Roadmap to Recovery later this morning, setting out how the construction sector, working with Government, can ‘restart, reset, and reinvent’ the industry.
Improving the delivery of construction projects requires fundamental change, which has been reinforced by recent events, and the Roadmap provides a clear plan not only to get the industry back on its feet but make it more productive, financially viable and sustainable in the long term.
Build UK is part of the CLC and our activities over the coming weeks and months will directly support the three phases of the Roadmap:
Reset: driving demand, increasing productivity and strengthening capability in the supply chain (3 ‐ 12 months)
Reinvent: transforming the industry, delivering better value, collaboration and partnership (12 ‐ 24 months).
There is something in the Roadmap for everyone, wherever they are in the supply chain, and by working together across the industry to deliver all the outcomes, we can achieve the better industry we all want. We can already see it working in practice, with Build UK joining a number of leading industry organisations in writing to the Chancellor to make the case for a further delay in the implementation of Reverse Charge VAT.
You can start playing your part now by completing the CLC People Survey, which is the first cross‐industry collection of data undertaken by all CLC members. In less than 10 minutes, you can help us to understand the implications of a reduced workload on the construction workforce by submitting your response by Friday 5 June.
The Chancellor has confirmed details of the extended Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which will see employees continue to receive 80% of their salary up to £2,500 per month until the end of October 2020.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme is now live
The UK Government’s Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme is now live on GOV.UK
If you’re an employer with fewer than 250 employees, you can now claim for Coronavirus-related Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). You can also speak to your tax agent about making claims on your behalf.
The repayment will cover up to two weeks of the applicable rate of SSP. For more information on eligibility and how to make a claim please visit GOV.UK
The positive feedback we have received on our daily updates since the start of the coronavirus crisis has been much appreciated, and we are really pleased that we have been able to support our members and the wider industry throughout this time. Whilst responding to coronavirus‐related issues continues to take up the majority of our resources, the country is about to enter a new phase in terms of the easing of the lockdown and we will be publishing updates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from next week onwards.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that it is moving into phase 1 of its route map through and out of the crisis. Remote working remains the default position for those who can; however, the construction sector can begin preparing ‘non‐essential’ sites to resume work and the housing market will also prepare for a safe re‐opening.
The various guidance documents are slightly confusing but according to the Construction Scotland website there is a Construction Re‐Start Plan which states there is evidence that ‘the industry has the expertise and capability and is ready to re‐configure its workplaces to minimise the spread of the virus, and to work in a physically distanced manner at all times (with risk assessed and controlled close working where necessary)’. Phase 1 of this plan involves the advance preparation of sites in line withWorking on site during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Construction Guidance to facilitate physical distancing and enhanced hygiene.
There is no set date yet to move to phase 2, a soft re‐start, and the Scottish Government has confirmed that this will only happen when it is safe to do so and in line with public health advice.
The Self‐Employment Income Support Scheme is still open for eligible self‐employed individuals to submit a claim to receive a grant worth 80% of average trading profits, up to a maximum of £7,500, covering three months from March to May 2020. The grant will be subject to taxation and paid in a single instalment within six working days of a claim being submitted. There is currently no deadline for submitting for a claim.
Anyone who tests positive for coronavirus in England will now be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will need to share information about their recent interactions. This could include household members, people with whom they have been in direct contact, or within 2 metres for more than 15 minutes.
People identified as having been in close contact with someone who has a positive test must stay at home for 14 days, even if they do not have symptoms, to stop unknowingly spreading the virus.
If those in isolation develop symptoms, they can book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119. If they test positive, they must continue to stay at home for 7 days or until their symptoms have passed. If they test negative, they must complete the 14-day isolation period. You can find further guidance here.
There is specific guidance on the NHS test and trace service for employers, business, workers and the self-employed which can be found here
Everyone in the industry will have a role to play in delivering the Roadmap to Recovery when it is published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), and you can make a start right now!
To help understand the implications of a reduced workload on the construction workforce, including apprentices and graduates, the CLC is asking all employers to complete this short People Survey. It should take no longer than 10 minutes and the information provided will be confidential with no company details required. The deadline is Friday 5 June and please share with your members and supply chains to provide us with industry‐wide data.
Build UK Contractor members have reported this week that 93% of infrastructure and construction sites in England and Wales are now open, up from 86% last week. There has been a 13% increase in the number of projects running in London over the last seven days, rising to 94%. Output continues to improve and now stands at 79%, compared to 75% last week, with London making significant gains up from 68% to 77%.
Members that include housing in their portfolios have reported that 79% of housing sites in England and Wales are now open, a big jump from last week’s 67%. However, output remains a challenge on these sites at just 67%.
The situation in Scotland is still very different, with only 24% of projects open and output at 24%. The Scottish Government is due to publish guidance for the construction sector later this week as part of its route map through and out of the crisis which should support the reopening of more construction sites over the next few weeks.
The last couple of months have demonstrated that construction is a ‘people’ industry and we can clearly see that in this year’s Open Doors film report. Due to the impact of coronavirus, Open Doors 2020 went digital with a range of online experiences, from ISG’s virtual tour of Lords Cricket Ground to Willmott Dixon’s interview with their management trainees, showcasing the exciting range of careers available in construction. A huge thank you to all those Build UK members who adapted to the circumstances and helped make Open Doors 2020 a success.
Whilst the construction sector has been working throughout the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic, a lot of other businesses have remained closed. The Prime Minster has now confirmed that the Government is intending to move onto step two of its COVID‐19 Recovery Plan, which will include outdoor markets and car showrooms re-opening on 1 June, with non-essential retail shops to follow on 15 June, as long as they are COVID‐19 secure. Any further easing of the lockdown restrictions remains conditional on the ‘five tests’ set out by the Government continuing to be met.
Goods and materials imported for use on construction sites are not expected to be affected by the introduction of new measures at the UK border from 8 June 2020, designed to protect against a second wave of coronavirus infections. Whilst anyone entering the UK will be required to undergo 14 days self‐isolation, the shortlist of exemptions includes road haulage and freight workers to ensure that the supply of goods is not impacted, as well as anyone moving from within the Common Travel Area, covering Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man. The new measures will apply across the UK ‐ although each of the four nations will determine how they are enforced within their jurisdiction ‐ and will be reviewed every three weeks.
The CLC is expected to publish the industry’s Roadmap to Recovery next week, setting out the plan to ‘restart, reset and reinvent’ the sector, and we will share it as soon as it is available.
The online service for the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme has launched today, enabling employers with fewer than 250 employees to apply to HMRC to recover the costs of paying coronavirus‐related SSP. Employers can claim for periods of sickness covering up to two weeks starting on or after:
13 March 2020 ‐ if their employee(s) had coronavirus or the symptoms, or was self‐isolating because someone they live with had symptoms
16 April 2020 ‐ if their employee(s) was shielding because of coronavirus
The Government has published guidance on submitting a claim and, to avoid any delays with your submission, you will need the following to hand before you start:
A Government Gateway ID and password ‐ if you don’t already have an account, you can apply online
Registration for PAYE online ‐ if you aren’t yet registered, you can do so online. If you have an agent authorised to act for you on PAYE matters online, they can submit a claim on your behalf
Employer PAYE scheme reference number
Total amount of coronavirus‐related SSP you have paid to your employees for the claim period, which should not exceed the weekly rate at the time ‐ you can use the SSP calculator to work out the amount
Number of employees you are claiming for
Start date and end date of the claim period
UK bank account and contact details.
Once you have submitted your claim and it has been validated, you will be paid the amount within six working days. You must keep records of the SSP that you have claimed back from HMRC, as well as the following records for three years after the date you receive the rebate in the event of any dispute over payment:
The reason they gave for missing work (i.e. if they had symptoms, someone they lived with had symptoms, or they were shielding)
The employee’s National Insurance number.
Employers who are unable to claim online should have received a letter on an alternative way to claim; if you haven’t received a letter, you can contact HMRC.
HMRC is hosting a series of webinars on making a claim under the scheme across a number of dates and times this week.
Large businesses can now borrow up to 25% of their turnover, up to a maximum of £200 million, through the Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS). Companies borrowing more than £50 million will be subject to restrictions on dividend payments, senior pay and share buy‐backs during the period of the loan.
The Scottish Government has published its route map through and out of the crisis, giving an indication of how it will ease lockdown measures in Scotland. It sets out its phased approach on page 41 and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed yesterday that the advance preparation of non‐essential construction sites in Scotland can begin from 28 May 2020. Further sector‐specific guidance, including for construction, is due to be published next week.
Since the start of the coronavirus (COVID‐19) crisis almost 10 weeks ago, Build UK has focused on keeping construction sites operational and making sure our members and the wider industry are kept up to date with the latest information and support to help them respond as quickly as possible to the wide range of challenges faced. The collaboration between representative bodies, liaison across Government departments, and engagement with other sectors has been extraordinary and on a scale we could never have imagined. It has proved extremely effective, with construction leading the way in dealing with the new world of social distancing.
As Scotland follows England’s lead in lifting the current restrictions, there is the opportunity for the industry to start to look ahead and plan its future. We can take huge pride in the contributions the sector has made to the coronavirus response and the fundamental part it will play in the economic recovery.
By adopting new ways of working, we can restore public confidence in the industry. By delivering the Construction Leadership Council’s ‘Roadmap to Recovery’, due to be published shortly, we can implement the changes required for the longer‐term sustainability of the sector. And by adjusting the way we do business, we can speed up the infrastructure revolution and help get the UK economy back on its feet.
The bank holidays provide a welcome break, particularly at the moment, and we do hope that you get an opportunity to take some ‘down time’. Looking after yourself as well as your businesses and your staff is extremely important, and we will be back with our next update on Tuesday!
Today’s email includes news on the latest number of Test Centres to re-open in England, a new Buildathon competition winner and a refresh on CITB’s support measures for industry.
Test Centres
In my update last week it was announced that CITB will begin to re-establish the Health, Safety and Environment testing operations in England. To date 115 out of a possible 130 Pearson Professional Centres in England have re-opened. Our Internet Test Centre network is also being phased back on a one-by-one basis, once centres have confirmed the implementation of all relevant measures. We currently have 54 that are operational. Information and updates on test delivery can be found here.
Update on recent Support Measures
Site Safety Plus
We have had a 50% increase in the amount of Site Safety Plus training centres now delivering remote learning since our last update – 65 in total. One of those centres being our own National Construction College which is now delivering the Health and Safety Awareness course. For a full list of Site Safety Plus training centres delivering remotely use the course locator tool.
The new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on April 1. To date we have received 352 applications. To apply for funding, click here.
Buildathon
Using resources previously produced, we’re pleased to see future generations developing their interest in the industry through the Minecraft Buildathon competitions. The winner of the second Buildathon round in Wales has been announced. The construction competition for children aged 5-12 continues to draw talent, receiving a number of high quality entries. Congratulations to Zac Allsopp, whose entry was full of imagination. The exceptional detail and level of accuracy throughout also captured the judge’s attention. For more information and to register your interest, click here.
Apprentices
Over 10,800 apprentices have been contacted by our Apprenticeship Team to date to make them aware of the support available. We have found that numbers on site are starting to pick back up as apprentices return to work from furlough. We will continue to support apprentices through this time and provide guidance where needed. If you require any assistance please email us at Apprenticeships.COVID19@citb.co.uk.
SOP V4 recently updated guidance, removing the 15 minutes face to face working rule and recommending that Face Masks (PPE) should only be used for those task or activities that have always required them under general Health and Safety regulations.
For normal working Public Health England (PHE) are NOT suggesting that face masks need to be worn and that face coverings offer a suitable alternative for those that wish to use them.
As such, under PHE guidelines there is no requirement for employers to provide them. Guidance should however be provided for use and care.
We would like the thank FIS for the use of this additional information to support our members.
Scottish sites can reopen ‘if they work with trade unions’
Source - Construction News
Scotland will begin a process to reopen construction sites from next week (28 May).
Plans unveiled by first minister Nicola Sturgeon set out a series of four phases for easing the lockdown. Speaking to the Scottish Assembly in Edinburgh, Sturgeon warned that the reopening of sites could only take place in partnership with trade unions, based on a plan the government had developed with the industry.
“The construction industry will be able to carefully implement steps one and two of its six step restart plan which it has developed with us. However, let me be clear there must be genuine partnership with trade unions, this can only be done if it is done safely,” Sturgeon told Scottish Assembly members.
Restrictions on construction sites in Scotland have been more stringent than the rest of the UK since coronavirus legislation began. Non-essential construction work is currently banned in Scotland. When British prime minister Boris Johnson last week urged construction sites to resume work, Sturgeon said he should emphasise this was just in England.
From next week (28 May) the construction sector can start planning a return to work based on the plan agreed “only after consulting with government to ensure it is safe to do so in line with public health advice”.
Details of the industry plan are not available on the main route map published by the Scottish Government and CN could not access the government’s website, which crashed shortly after Nicola Sturgeon began speaking.
Retailers told "no reason not to be open" right now
Source - Carpet Foundation
After receiving clarification from Government, the Carpet Foundation is advising retailers in England they can open their premises right away, as "homeware stores" – provided they have strict 'COVID-19 Secure' guidelines in place and seek legal advice.
The Foundation told its 370 retail members: "After discussions with Government at the end of last week, we have received this notification regarding the re-opening of carpet retailers: The regulations have always identified homeware, building supplies and hardware stores as being among those businesses which may be regarded as legal exceptions to the requirement to close and it remains for each business to seek its own legal advice in making decisions re: whether or not to operate.
"These decisions must take full account of the regulations, guidance and the requirement (related to the Health & Safety at Work Act) to adhere to PHE guidelines on social distancing in the workplace to protect the health and safety of both staff and customers."
The advice came from Veronica Giannangeli at the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) after the Foundation opened up talks with the Department to emphasise the importance of the flooring sector to the UK economy.
In its guidance the Foundation said; "What is 100% clear from this is that you need to take advice and follow that advice. Our advice is that you must fully comply with all the requirements of social distancing, putting in place the new practices for working in stores and other people’s homes."
"If you have all of the requirements for social distancing in place it would appear you have no reason not to be open," it said.
At present, this advice only applies to England as separate guidance will be issued for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The results of the latest Build UK materials survey suggest that, whilst the demand for plaster and plasterboard has eased compared to a couple of weeks ago, both are likely to remain in short supply for the short and medium term. Aggregates and bricks were also cited by members, as well as plasterboard fixings, internal and external insulation, and partitioning metal. Not surprisingly, there is also still significant demand for FFP2 and FFP3 facemasks, gloves and disposable coveralls. Thank you to everyone who responded; the information helps us to demonstrate the ongoing demand for materials and products and keep the supply chain open.
Build UK members continue to share examples and information on how they are implementing the Site Operating Procedures across a range of sites and activities. Any queries on the information should be directed to the relevant member and, if you have similar examples you would like to share, please contact Build UK.
CITB has been re‐opening Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E)test centres in England this week. The majority of Pearson Professional Centres in England are now operational, with the Internet Test Centre (ITC) network being reintroduced on a one‐by‐one basis once they have confirmed the implementation of social distancing measures. To find your nearest test centre and confirm whether it is open, visit the booking website, select the test you wish to take and enter your postcode.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is supporting the Conflict Avoidance Pledge developed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Aimed at helping deliver projects on time and budget with fewer disputes, the pledge commits clients and contractors to implementing conflict avoidance measures in their contracts and on site.
With the number of reported incidents of fraud and cyber‐crime on the rise, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has published guidance to support small businesses moving from the physical to the digital to put in place new cyber security measures.
Build UK Contractor members have reported this week that 86% of infrastructure and construction sites in England and Wales are now open, up from 82% last week. Output has increased to 75% but there are still challenges in London where output remains slightly lower at 68%.
Members that include housing in their portfolios have reported that 67% of housing sites in England and Wales are open, with output improving significantly to 65%, up from only 29% four weeks ago.
The situation in Scotland remains very different, with only 19% of projects running and output at just 22%. The Scottish Government is due to publish its ‘route map’ out of lockdown tomorrow and the industry will be waiting to see if there is any change to the restriction on essential construction works only.
Contractor members are beginning to bring workers back from furlough, reporting this week that on average 22% of their workforce are now furloughed, down from 30% four weeks ago. It was confirmed yesterday that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has seen 8 million people furloughed at a cost of £11.1 billion to date, and further information is expected shortly on the changes that will be introduced from August.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has released its latest labour market statistics, which show that the number of people claiming unemployment benefit in the UK rose to 2.1 million in April 2020, up 69% from March.
The Government has announced that the online service for the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme will be launched next Tuesday 26 May 2020. This will allow small and medium‐sized employers, with fewer than 250 employees, to apply to HMRC to recover the costs of paying coronavirus‐related SSP to current or former employees for up to two weeks since 13 March 2020. To prepare to submit a claim, employers should make sure they have up to date records of all SSP payments that they wish to include.
From 26 May 2020, large businesses will be able to borrow up to £200 million through the Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CLBILS), after the Government increased the maximum loan size from £50 million. Companies borrowing more than £50 million will be subject to restrictions on dividend payments, senior pay and share buy‐backs during the period of the loan, including a ban on dividend payments and cash bonuses, except where they were previously agreed.
Confirmation that apprenticeship training and assessment can continue in line with the new safer working guidance
Information on extending the transition period onto the apprenticeship service for non-levy employers
Additional detail on the furlough scheme
Examples of how to calculate wages for a furloughed apprentice
Further FAQs covering Off-the-job training
Latest content on the existing support available to redundant apprentices
Functional Skills
We will be setting up a series of webinars next week where the policy authors will go through the changes and take part in a question and answer session.
The webinars will enable us to listen to your views and capture your valuable insight.
Today my messages focus on Mental Health Awareness Week; the range of sources and support available and an update on the CLC Site Operating Procedures.
New: The Lighthouse Club Wellbeing Workshops
According to The Lighthouse Club charity, stress, anxiety and depression currently accounts for a fifth of all work-related illness. Now more than ever, it’s vital that we look after our mental health, and stay in touch with loved ones to ensure they have support where possible. Mental Health Awareness Week takes place this week from 18 – 24 May, and to mark the occasion The Lighthouse Club is offering free online workshops for anyone working in construction.
Across Monday-Friday, the charity will host a different workshop every day at 1:30pm, each lasting one hour. From top tips on handling stress, to meditation techniques led by a construction professional; the workshops will provide guidance and advice on a variety of topics surrounding wellbeing. To find out more and register, click here.
New: The Lighthouse Club App & GOV.UK ‘Find Help’ Toolkit
I would also like to remind you about the Helpline app launched by The Lighthouse Club charity. The free app provides a platform to seek guidance and information in a discreet manner, without the need to supply any personal details. It provides access to a vast range of resources and topics covering mental, physical and financial wellbeing. To find out more and download the app, click here.
Additionally, a new ‘Find Help’ toolkit is currently available on GOV.UK to support those struggling due to COVID-19. Users will answer a series of questions and be signposted to the relevant services based on their needs and where they live.
CITB’s COVID-19 Wellbeing Blog
If you missed it before, take a look at CITB’s Health and Safety Policy Lead, the Reverend Kevin Fear’s blog. Here he talks about some of the day-to-day measures that everyone in construction can take to look after their mental health, as well as tools and resources available for employers.
New: CLC Site Operating Procedures Supporting Materials Updated
Following today’s release of Version 4 of the CLC Site Operating Procedures that can be found here, we are updating our COVID-19 - Site safety checklists and forms and will shortly upload them to the website page.
Please note that you may need to refresh your browser cache in order to view the latest version by pressing Ctrl+Shift+R (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+R (Mac).
CITB has produced a range of checklists to help employers implement the Site Operating Procedures in practice:
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published a statement on how it will maintain its regulatory functions as businesses return to work. This will include conducting visits to business premises and sites in line with social distancing regulations, as well as targeted proactive inspection work of high-risk industries including construction.
Transport for London (TfL) continues to urge people not to use the tube between peak hours of 05:45 ‐ 08:15 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30 and has published a list of the 20 busiest stations during these times.
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and a range of organisations, including Mind and Mates in Mind, have provided resources to support employers and their workforces with their mental well‐being during this period. Build UK member the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has also published a report, Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment, which looks at the state of mental health within the industry. It describes the ‘silent crisis’ affecting many construction workers’ day‐to‐day lives and makes a number of recommendations to tackle it, from improving awareness to providing specialist support services.
Build UK joined the latest industry conference call with Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi last week, where he confirmed that the Government would be identifying public sector construction projects that could be brought forward or accelerated.
Demonstrating that commitment, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced a Transport Infrastructure Investment Fund worth £1.7 billion to improve roads and railways, as well as the acceleration of £175 million worth of vital repairs while fewer passengers are using the transport system.
The future pipeline of work is a major concern for Build UK members and information from Builders’ Conference shows a continued downward trend in both the number and value of contracts awarded in the first two weeks of May. In the preceding six weeks of the lockdown there was an average of 122 contract awards each week, whilst the first and second weeks of May saw just 66 and 94 contracts awarded, respectively. The value of contracts awarded fell from an average of £2.08 billion per week to just £0.3 billion in the first week of May, and £1.43 billion in the second.
The Site Operating Procedures are currently under review following publication of the Government guidance on Working Safely during Coronavirus (COVID‐19). There is no longer any reference to face to face contact being 15 minutes or less in the latest guidance, which supersedes previous Government guidance. The Prime Minister has asked that employers maintain the discipline of social distancing and hand washing to avoid a second peak of infection.
Transport for London (TfL) is ‘Restarting London’ from today, increasing service levels on both tubes and buses whilst also reinstating the Congestion Charge of £11.50 for drivers between 7:00am and 6:00pm, Monday to Friday.
Build UK is helping TfL to manage capacity and map future requirements on public transport as more people return to work. Working with our members, we have provided detailed information on over 120 large projects in London, the majority of which are operating staggered start and finish times and do not expect to reach full capacity until July at the earliest.
Build UK’s repurposed Open Doors website has been a huge success and construction workers now have access to over 27,000 beds across the UK and Ireland when working away from home. If you require accommodation and none is shown locally, please send Build UK the site postcode or location. By working with trade body UK Hospitality, we can add providers where there is demand.
Finally, please help us to keep the supply chain open by taking a few moments to share your demand for materials and products via the latest Build UK materials survey before 5:00pm today.
Source: Safety Services (UK) Ltd (CFA member benefit provider)
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced numerous challenges to the country. The government has set out a road map for restarting the UK economy with many businesses reopening as a result. The legal obligation to ensure the health and safety of employees, visitors, customers etc requires business owners and directors to rise to the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Parliament and the Prime Minister have confirmed that the HSE WILL be enforcing any lack of compliance to the law in respect to COVID-19 and the associated risks. He also stated that there would be spot inspections conducted by HM inspectors.
Many of Safety Services' clients are now using their consultancy time to assist with areas such as:
Re-opening your workplace - Social distancing, new ways of working, gradual reoccupation
Covid 19 Risk Assessments
Fire Risk Assessment and the Regulatory Fire Reform Order 2005 - Many businesses, whether they have remained open, or not, are experiencing changes in risk. In all cases, businesses should be aware of these changes in risk and review their Fire Risk Assessments (FRA) accordingly, to ensure they are suitable and sufficient.
Construction Leadership Council - Site Operating Procedures Version 3 Protecting Your Workforce During Coronavirus (Covid-19)
Safety Services are running a COVID 19 Awareness course - this 2.5 hour course via Zoom and will provide delegates with sufficient information regarding safe working practice and to assist in the management and control of risks associated with the current virus.
Course content -
Current legislation and guidance
Reporting cases in line with RIDDOR
Access to site
Social distancing
Welfare
Site Office Safety
Social distancing for onsite activities
PPE
Signage
Briefings to site management teams
Assistance for individuals with symptoms or confirmed cases
Isolation for those with symptoms
The course will cost £45.00 plus VAT and all delegates will be provided with a certificate of completion. To book email training@safetyservices.co.uk
If a company has enough delegates Safety Services are able to run bespoke courses.
The article below by Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol was originally published in Construction News on 11 May 2020.
Take this opportunity: COVID‐19 should change our industry for the better
It may not feel like it right now but there are some positives for the construction industry to take from the coronavirus crisis.
One of those is the government’s recognition of the importance of the sector to the economy and society. The industry has bemoaned the lack of a dedicated minister for years, but recent letters from business secretary Alok Sharma have specifically highlighted that construction is contributing to the “resilience” of the nation. There have also been frequent meetings with the secretary of state himself, as well as a range of ministers, including the construction minister Nadhim Zahawi, BEIS minister Paul Scully and the minister responsible for HS2, Andrew Stephenson, all of whom have supported the recent work of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC).
A vital industry
The realisation by those at the top of government that construction is of significant economic value should not be underestimated, and as an industry we should be proud of the role we are playing. The government asked us to keep construction going, and we’ve responded by completing the Nightingale hospitals while continuing ‐ and even accelerating ‐ numerous other projects to expand healthcare capacity.
We’ve also been carrying out vital work to keep the country’s infrastructure running, including highways and key transport links, alongside projects to build new schools, care homes, housing, and other social infrastructure that will be needed more than ever when we emerge from this crisis.
We’ve been able to undertake that work because we’ve pulled together as a sector ‐ for example in developing and implementing the Site Operating Procedures to ensure compliance with government guidance.
Companies have recognised that they need to embrace new ways of working, and I’m not just talking about maintaining social distancing on site, but about fundamentally changing the way projects are conceived, designed, procured, and delivered.
The changes required of the construction sector have already been well documented through myriad industry reports in the past; however, we have made limited progress while more demands have been added to the list.
What's changed?
Necessity being the mother of invention, the coronavirus crisis has forced some of that change on us.
In complying with the Site Operating Procedures to keep workers safe, we’ve begun to appreciate our people and their skills more, but also question what we do on site and why more of it isn’t done off site or in a different way;
We’ve discovered that many routine tasks that used to involve in‐person meetings, such as conducting site visits or handing over completed projects, can now be done equally, if not more, effectively remotely. An 8:30am Zoom call is much better for a healthy work‐life balance than an 8:30am meeting miles away from home;
We’ve also seen that, when required, we can do things previously thought to be too difficult. Shift‐working across 24 hours has delivered projects in record time while avoiding congestion on site and rush‐hour commuting. While not right for every project, it is an example of how thinking and operating differently could work to the benefit of everyone;
We’ve proved that collaboration is key. In order to keep projects going and minimise the usual contractual stand‐offs, clients, contractors and the supply chain are recognising that there has to be a better way to find the common ground;
Last but not least, we’ve seen increased pride in the sector and recognition of the value to our communities. There is less emphasis on “this is how we’ve always done it” and more focus on “what do we need to do to make this work”, leading to better and faster communication across the whole supply chain.
Build UK is playing a fundamental role in the CLC, which is leading on a roadmap to recovery for the sector. We must make some of these short-term changes permanent and speed up the infrastructure revolution that will make us more effective and efficient in the long term.
We have shown over the last seven weeks that construction really can do things differently and this crisis could finally be the catalyst for change.
It is up to each and every one of us to grab this opportunity and leave the legacy of a strong and sustainable industry for the next generation.
I hope you're having a good week. Today's update begins with a video explaining why CITB has had to make difficult funding decisions in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
This email also includes a link to new COVID-19 safety resources, news on the re-opening of our Test Centres in England and a refresh on our recent support measures for industry.
CITB has, like everyone else in construction, made tough decisions to reduce our costs during the COVID-19 lockdown. Our decision to suspend Levy collection, for example, provided much-needed financial relief to employers, but as well as this delay in income, we are planning for a significant reduction in 2020/21 income overall.
After careful consideration, CITB believes that prioritising funding to give employers maximum support during the COVID-19 crisis is the right thing to do in these testing times. For this reason our focus in the year ahead will be on direct funding for employers’ immediate skills and training activity, and support for apprenticeships. This means we need to stop or suspend many of our other funded programmes and projects.
We are also talking to the Department for Education about options that may be available to reduce this year’s Levy bills. Details on the outcome of those discussions, and our funding decisions, will be included in our revised 2020/21 business plan, the Stability Plan, to be published in June.
I am keenly aware of the potential impact funding cuts will have on our customers. However, I believe the tough decisions we have made will help employers during these extraordinary times get the best value from the industry’s levy right now. I hope this update and the accompanying video above explains why cuts have to be implemented.
COVID-19 Site Safety Checklists and Forms
New health and safety support, produced in collaboration with the Construction Leadership Council and Build UK, is available to download here (under the Site Operating Procedures heading). The checklist and forms will help ensure site operating procedures during COVID-19 are clear and accessible to employees.
Test Centres
Following Sunday’s Government announcement CITB is re-establishing the Health, Safety and Environment testing operations in England. All Pearson Professional Centres in England will be operational from Monday 18th May. For those outside of England, there are a number of free products to help employers run their own in-house interim testing to give a level of local assurance that an employee is safe to work on their site. Information and updates on test delivery can be found here (under HS&E Test section). Also, our Internet Test Centre network will be phased back on a one-by-one basis once they have confirmed the implementation of new social distancing measures.
The new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on April 1. To date we have received 309 applications. To apply for funding, please click here. The Leadership & Management Development Fund was launched on April 14. Applications are anticipated prior to the revised submission date of July 31.
Site Safety Plus
Three additional Site Safety Plus courses, which can be delivered remotely, are now available. They are: Temporary Works General Awareness Training Course, Temporary Works Supervisor Training Course and Temporary Works Coordinator Training Course. To find the nearest SSP course to you please use our Course Locator.
Following a concerted effort by Build UK to support members to increase their output whilst complying with the Site Operating Procedures, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick has published a Written Ministerial Statement making it clear that for the next 12 months local planning authorities in England should not refuse requests to extend working hours on construction sites up to 9:00pm, Monday to Saturday, without very compelling reasons. In some cases, such as in areas without residential properties, 24‐hour working may be justified.
Requests should be made to the local planning authority which should aim to issue a decision within 10 working days. Short term or modest increases to working hours may be agreed informally, whereas longer term or more significant changes will require a formal application in the usual way and the Government has published FAQs with further information.
The Government has published new advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID‐19) outbreak, which makes it clear that people who wish to move home can do so. This should lead to more construction sites reopening and provide a boost to the supply chain. The guidance for tradespeople is particularly helpful, confirming that general home improvements can now be undertaken in new and existing homes, such as fitting new kitchens and redecorating. Anyone working in people’s homes should follow the latest Government guidance on Working safely during coronavirus (COVID‐19) which is aligned to the Site Operating Procedures.
Businesses with supply chains which rely on Trade Credit Insurance and are experiencing difficulties maintaining cover due to coronavirus will get support from the Government. Business‐to‐business transactions currently supported by Trade Credit Insurance will be temporarily guaranteed through a reinsurance agreement with insurers currently operating in the market until at least the end of the year.
The Chancellor has announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will be extended until the end of October 2020, avoiding a ‘cliff edge’ and getting people back to work in a measured way.
There will be no changes to the scheme until the end of July, with furloughed workers continuing to receive 80% of their salary, up to £2,500 a month. From the start of August, flexibility will be introduced which will enable employers to bring back furloughed workers part‐time and pay a percentage of their salaries. The scheme has supported almost one million businesses to furlough 7.5 million workers to date, and further information on the scheme going forward will be published by the end of this month.
With construction now being actively encouraged to return to work, Build UK Contractor members have reopened more sites, reporting this week that 77% of sites in England and Wales are open for business, up from 73% last week. 82% of infrastructure and construction projects are now running and output has remained consistent at 71%.
Members that include housing in their portfolios have reported a 13% increase in the number of housing sites now open, rising to 68% compared to 55% last week. Output has improved significantly and now stands at 53%, up from 29% two weeks ago.
This should increase further after Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick announced plans yesterday to re‐start the housing market, which as well as allowing people to move home safely will enable builders to agree extended working hours on construction sites with their local councils.
I hope you’re having a productive week. Today’s COVID-19 industry update focuses on safely returning to work and includes news of a comprehensive range of COVID-19 site safety checklists and forms produced in collaboration with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) with additional input from the CITB Wales Nation Council.
I’d like to begin by thanking everyone who has provided feedback on these twice-weekly industry updates. There’s still time for you to let me know what works for you and the content you’d like to see in these emails. Please click here to complete a brief survey.
COVID-19 Site Safety Checklists and Forms
During the pandemic it is essential that the workforce is protected to minimise the risk of infection on construction sites.
We have worked hard with the CLC and others to produce a comprehensive range of checklists and forms that will be available to download on Thursday. We are trying to help employers by providing this information. It will ensure that those who are permitted and able to return to work have a clear understanding of how they can apply the CLC’s COVID-19 Site operating procedures guidance (Version 3) in practice. Guidance on issues such as close working, cleaning and what employees should do if they become unwell will be included.
The checklist and forms will have four parts:
CC01: COVID-19 – Site operating procedures compliance checklist: An interactive checklist to ensure compliance with current guidance on protecting your workforce on site during the COVID-19 pandemic
CC02: COVID-19 – Health, safety and environmental risk assessment template: A guide offering example control measures for those required to undertake risk assessment of the workplace and specific activities on site. An interactive risk assessment template is also included in order to facilitate this process
CC03: COVID-19 – A toolbox talk for construction workers: Designed to be delivered to construction workers by their manager or supervisor. Good communication is essential for health and safety management on construction sites. It is vitally important that contractors, managers and supervisors engage and consult with workers, as it is an effective way of identifying hazards and controlling risks
CC04: COVID-19 – Weekly site operating procedures checklist: An interactive checklist, designed to ensure ongoing compliance with both established and additional procedures.
On Monday, the UK Government published Working safely during COVID-19 in construction and other outdoor work, a document to help employers, employees and the self-employed in the UK understand how to work safely during the COVID 19 pandemic. The guidance emphasises the importance of keeping as many people as possible two metres apart from those they do not live with. You can download it here.
Safely Returning to Work
Health and safety is CITB’s top priority, for both customers and staff. When lockdown first began, CITB set up an email to advise and support apprentices and their employers – this is still available. If you have queries about safely returning to work in light of recent announcements by the Scottish, Welsh and UK Government please email: Apprenticeships.COVID19@citb.co.uk.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.
You can also read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
The Government has published its COVID‐19 Recovery Strategy which sets out the plan to ‘return life to as close to normal as possible, for as many people as possible, as fast and fairly as possible… in a way that avoids a new epidemic, minimises lives lost and maximises health, economic and social outcomes’.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol attended a meeting with the Prime Minister on Sunday evening, comprised of business leaders and representative organisations. The Prime Minister confirmed that, as we enter the next phase of the response to the virus, the challenge will be to keep the rate of infection or R number below 1.0 and restrictions will be eased in a safe and measured way. Whilst the first consideration is the nation’s health, there is also the need for a strong economy which protects people’s jobs and ensures that the Government can fund the country’s vital public services.
The plan is for restrictions to be lifted step by step and the following changes, which will be familiar to the construction industry because it has continued to work, will apply in England as part of step one from Wednesday 13 May 2020:
Workers should continue to work from home wherever possible
All workers that cannot work from home, including those in construction, should travel to work if their workplace is open
Public transport should be avoided wherever possible. Where it is used, the following Government advice is applicable: ‘If you can, wear a face covering in an enclosed space where social distancing isn’t possible and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet’
Workplaces should follow the new guidance on Working Safely During Coronavirus (COVID‐19) which has been published for a range of working environments, including construction and working in people’s homes. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will review the Site Operating Procedures to ensure they are fully consistent with the new guidance.
There is no clear guidance from the Government or Public Health England on the use of face masks by construction workers; however, information on PPE and face coverings is included in section 6 of the construction guidance and Build UK will now look at what further information it can offer to help members.
With construction workers being ‘actively encouraged’ to go to work, the Open Doors website has more than 340 accommodation providers offering over 22,000 beds across the UK and Ireland for anyone working away from home who needs local accommodation.
Yesterday, the Prime Minister specifically underlined the message that construction and manufacturing are actively being encouraged to go back to work. This leaves some individual challenges that the flooring sector will need to overcome, and the CFA have the following available to members:
CLC Guidance on Site Operating Procedures (SOP V3)
A NEW Covid-19 risk assessment template, Covid-19, policy statement & Furlough return to work template
An HR consultant on hand for matters such as taking people out of Furlough
Additional H&S support for members through our helpline
We are carrying out a survey to understand current needs and the CFA are contributing to work around facemasks and other PPE guidance. We appreciate that direct client work, refurbishment, maintenance and improvement (RMI) may be slower to return and are happy to help members with specific questions. Guidance is of course different for Scotland and Wales and reflected by the CFA blog. Tel 0115 941 1126 or email info@cfa.org.uk
The Prime Minister addressed the nation yesterday evening to provide a plan for both beating the virus and the ‘first sketch’ of a roadmap for reopening society. He confirmed that, whilst those that can work from home should continue to do so, anyone that can’t, which includes those in construction and manufacturing, is actively encouraged to go to work but to avoid travelling on public transport where possible.
It was made clear that this is not the end of lockdown but the start of the Government‘s plan to ‘save lives and restore livelihoods’. Whilst small changes will be introduced over the coming weeks, these will be ‘conditional’ on keeping the rate of infection or R number below 1.0 and a new Covid Alert System will be used to indicate if that is being achieved.
Guidance on safer working for a range of working environments will be published this week and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will review the Site Operating Procedures in light of any changes.
With more members contacting the CFA to say they are returning to work in the commercial flooring sector, we wanted to ensure we could offer support and guidance as companies make the transition. So, the CFA have produced a number of templates including a COVID-19 risk assessment, a COVID-19 policy statement, a furlough return to work template as well as CITB COVID-19 toolbox talks and further recommendations for safe workplaces. All of these are available to CFA members through the members area of the website.
As we come to the end of our seventh week in lockdown and head towards the bank holiday, it feels as if we are about to enter a new phase. Updated guidance on ‘Working Safely’ is expected from the Government any time now as it looks to restart the economy, and we understand the key issues of PPE and travelling to work will be addressed as part of this.
Build UK would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone that has provided feedback on the role we have played since the crisis hit. We have done our best to keep our members and the wider industry updated as quickly and efficiently as possible. Where we have been able to identify a solution, such as matching demand for materials, services or accommodation with suppliers, we have actioned it and the industry has responded accordingly; where we haven’t had the answers, we have set out what is being done to find them and your patience has been very much appreciated.
The way in which Build UK members have contributed, and the industry has pulled together, demonstrates that we are stronger than we thought and can achieve more than we imagined. We must not forget this as we look ahead to the next stage and some form of recovery. We will need to address many more issues to get the industry through this, and consistency across the supply chain will give confidence to our businesses, our people and our projects which will benefit everyone.
We are receiving excellent feedback on the re‐purposing of the Open Doors website to help construction workers working away from home find local accommodation. There are now more than 300 accommodation providers offering over 16,000 beds across the UK and Ireland. With more sites reopening, the system can be used by anyone in the construction supply chain looking to find accommodation when working away from home.
We also continue to list sites looking for accommodation and, if your site requires accommodation and none is shown locally, please send Build UK the site postcode as we can add providers where there is demand.
Build UK Contractor members continue to reopen their sites, reporting this week that 73% of sites are open in England and Wales, up from 69% last week. Over 80% of infrastructure and construction projects are running, with members that include housing in their portfolios reporting that just over half of their housing sites (55%) are now open for business, compared to 46% last week.
Productivity on infrastructure and construction sites is averaging 71%, up from 67% last week. Construction sites in London remain a challenge, although output has improved from 56% to 63% in the last week.
The Government has brought forward the start date of the Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and the claims service will now open on 13 May 2020, with HMRC already starting to contact individuals who may be eligible.
Individuals can use the online checker tool to find out whether they are eligible and, if so, when they can submit their claim. The scheme offers a taxable grant worth 80% of average trading profits, up to a maximum of £7,500 (equivalent to three months’ profits), paid in a single instalment by 25 May 2020 or within six working days of a claim being completed.
Build UK partner Anderson Strathern has produced an addendum to Build UK’s Guidance on Contractual Issues Caused by Coronavirus, setting out the amendments required for use in Scotland with SBCC contracts. The original guidance produced by Wedlake Bell offers practical advice for all parties in the supply chain on what to do when faced with a wide range of contractual issues, including delays, labour and materials shortages, and increasing costs.
The Government and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have confirmed that statutory maintenance works should continue during lockdown. Build UK Trade Association member BESA has produced guidance to help building owners, landlords and tenants with the maintenance, mothballing and reactivation of their buildings to reflect the current lower usage and different operational requirements.
As of 1 May 2020, all PPE purchased by businesses, care homes, charities, and individuals to protect against coronavirus will be free from VAT for a three‐month period until 31 July 2020.
Further Information
A reminder that there are two webinars taking place tomorrow at 11:00am:
Today’s COVID-19 industry update focuses on our Site Safety Plus distance learning, its impact on providers and how quality training is being maintained despite lockdown restrictions.
There is also news on the imminent launch of a site safety Toolbox Talk produced in collaboration with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC)
Site Safety Plus (SSP) Distance Learning
Training providers are continuing to support construction employers with essential training during this difficult time. Early signs show that the five CITB Site Safety Plus learning courses providing distance learning are having a positive impact for training providers, learners and employers.
Reassuringly, the pass rate of SSP courses since lockdown and the start of remote learning has remained consistent with courses delivered in the classroom. In April, the pass rate on SSP courses varied by just 1.48% compared to January 2020’s figure, with May being similar to date. All courses and tests are monitored remotely by CITB’s Quality Assurance Team to ensure high standards are maintained.
I was pleased to learn of one centre which is providing additional support by running a pre-awareness course on 'how to use the computer for remote training', to support delegates who struggle with technology. It is free-of-charge and takes place the day before training.
And it was good to receive feedback on the impact of SSP courses from Jo Niblett, Managing Director at Pragmatic Consulting, a Warwickshire-based training and assessment centre that has provided CITB training since July 2017. Jo told us that the courses have had a dramatically positive impact on their business.
Jo said: “We brought in more income in 48 hours, following the Friday email (from CITB), than the previous five weeks, and filled a number of courses. This has had a huge impact on my team in terms of morale and enabling our trainers to work.” Jo said the courses have allowed Pragmatic Consulting to reach a much wider audience; they have gained over 30 new customers including from more remote parts of the UK.
There are numerous benefits to distance learning both during lockdown and looking to the future. It’s important to stress that courses are tutor-led; they are effective and interactive, an online classroom environment that allows tutors to engage with delegates and discuss key topics to confirm understanding. Other benefits, as Jo Niblett points out, include: no driving for delegates or trainers, a relaxed atmosphere, focused learning and a great opportunity to learn new skills.
Approximately 10% of our Site Safety Plus centres have signed up to deliver remote training, a swift take-up given the huge upheavals to industry we’ve seen in recent weeks.
I hope you can make the most of the SSP Courses and all the remote learning standards we’ve made available. You can find an SSP course on the SSP Course Locator here.
Toolbox Talks
CITB will shortly launch a Toolbox Talk, aligned with CLC Site Operating Procedures (Version 3), following feedback from industry. The aim of the Toolbox Talk is to support industry to ensure safety guidance is followed during COVID-19. It also includes a range of other useful documents including interactive site compliance checklist, risk assessment templates and weekly compliance checklist.
The Toolbox Talk - delivered to construction workers by their manager or supervisor - will ensure their workforce has a clear understanding of what the CLC’s COVID-19 safe operating practices are. It will reinforce core basic principles of site safety in a brief, accessible way.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.
The Government is currently preparing for the economic restart, anticipated as part of any relaxing of the lockdown, and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) will be providing sector‐specific guidance on social distancing in the workplace. The draft guidance for construction that we have seen to date reflects the Site Operating Procedures which are already being implemented.
Build UK is part of the Government’s ‘outdoor working’ group and we are aware that other industry sectors have the same questions as construction on the use of PPE, the need for ‘permission to work’, and reduced capacity on public transport, particularly in London. These are expected to be addressed by the Government as part of its plan for businesses and the workforce to return to work.
Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, has responded to the Construction Leadership Council’s recent letter to the Prime Minister. He confirms that guidance has been provided to public authorities on PPN 02/20, giving those that hold cash retentions the ability to release all or part of these monies in relation to projects and promoting the use of Project Bank Accounts to accelerate payment to firms within the supply chain.
Having teamed up with trade body UK Hospitality, Build UK has repurposed the Open Doors website and there are now almost 140 accommodation providers offering over 10,500 beds across the UK and Ireland to construction workers working away from home. Bookings are already being made and the new system can be used by anyone in the construction supply chain.
We are also listing sites looking for accommodation and, if your site requires accommodation and none is shown locally, please send Build UK the site postcode as we can add providers where there is demand.
Businesses can borrow between £2,000 and £50,000, capped at 25% of turnover, with no fee to access the scheme
The Government will guarantee 100% of the loan and there will not be any fees or interest to pay for the first 12 months
Loan terms will be up to 6 years and no repayments will be due during the first 12 months
Interest rates will be capped at 2.5% per annum
Lenders are not permitted to take personal guarantees or recovery action over a borrower’s personal assets (such as their main home or personal vehicle).
To be eligible for the scheme, a business must be based in the UK, have been negatively affected by coronavirus (COVID‐19), have been trading on 1 March 1 2020, and not have been an ‘undertaking in difficultly’ as of 31 December 2019.
To apply, companies should approach a lender via its website and fill in the short online application form to self‐certify that they are eligible for a loan. You cannot apply if you’re already claiming under the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS); however, if you would like to transfer your CBILS loan into the BBLS, you can arrange this with your lender until 4 November 2020.
Build UK has teamed up with KPMG to provide guidance on tax measures introduced by HMRC in response to coronavirus, including Time to Pay, business rates and property‐related grants, income tax deferral, VAT, and corporate tax.
Working in partnership with Builders' Conference, Build UK has reviewed contracts awarded and tender opportunities in light of the uncertainty caused by coronavirus.
The last 12 months have been dominated by political events, including Brexit, the Conservative leadership contest and the General Election, resulting in peaks and troughs in the number of contracts being awarded. Between April 2019 and March 2020, an average of 621 contracts was awarded each month; however, this fell to 524 contracts in April 2020. This is 16% below the average and a decrease of 23% compared to March 2020 and 32% compared to April 2019.
There are two webinars taking on place on Thursday 7 May at 11:00am:
BEIS is hosting one on managing your business during coronavirus, including tax, filing reports and accounts, and right to work checks. You will need to register, and questions can be submitted via email to sed@beis.gov.uk until tomorrow.
Build UK partner, Willis Towers Watson, is running one on remobilising construction sites from an insurance perspective and again you will need to register.
Build UK joined the latest industry conference call with Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi yesterday, during which he thanked construction for rising to the challenge of implementing social distancing on site in accordance with the Site Operating Procedures.
As we prepare to enter week seven of the lockdown, there are a number of issues for the industry to resolve, including appropriate use of PPE on site, keeping face to face contact to 15 minutes or less where possible, and minimising the use of public transport, particularly in London where the service is drastically reduced at present. Build UK is working on each of these issues to provide further information to support the whole supply chain in taking a consistent approach, with the aim of instilling the workforce with the confidence to return to site.
To help contractors working away from home find local accommodation, Build UK has temporarily repurposed its Open Doors website. The website is live but still a work in progress and accommodation will continue to be added. We have teamed up with trade body UK Hospitality, which has confirmed that during the lockdown its members are able to provide accommodation for workers unable to return home.
Anyone looking for a bed for the night can now use the Open Doors website to find accommodation providers who have space for construction workers. If your site requires accommodation and none is shown locally, please send Build UK the site postcode or location as we can add providers where there is demand.
BEIS is hosting a webinar next Tuesday 5 May at 11:00am for small businesses to find out more about the financial support available, including grants, loans, tax relief and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. You will need to register, and questions can be submitted via email to sed@beis.gov.uk until close of play today.
Today’s weekly industry summary includes an update on CITB’s COVID support measures and news on a deadline extension to our Leadership and Management Fund, an update on demand for our Buildathon competition and a call to action for construction employers in Wales.
It also provides an opportunity for you to submit feedback on how these email updates can be improved for industry.
Leadership and Management Fund
The application deadline on our Leadership and Management Development Fund has, following industry feedback, been extended from June 12 to July 31 - one month after the end of the Government furlough scheme. As this is a competitive bid process and numerous organisations have furloughed staff who, under normal circumstances, would be developing bids, we have agreed that providing a time extension would be helpful. To apply for funding, please click here.
Buildathon
The standard of competition for our Minecraft Buildathon has been excellent; entries have been innovative, sustainable and environmentally friendly. Demand to take part in the Buildathon – a competition designed to show children (aged 5-12) construction’s appeal – has been very encouraging, so extra slots have been made available for May and June. For more information and to register your interest please click here. Winners of the early rounds will be announced shortly.
Call to Action for Welsh Construction Employers
New construction qualifications for 16-19 year-olds will be introduced in Wales in September 2021. It is essential that they suit the needs of construction employers and learners across Wales. Qualifications Wales has been working with a range of partners, including CITB, to support the changes, which are being developed by City & Guilds and Excellence Achievement and Learning.
If you would like to offer feedback on how the new qualifications should look please complete the registration form on this page to get involved (Welsh page here) or email City and Guilds directly on skillsforwales.customer@cityandguilds.com.
CITB has also been working with Qualifications Wales and Welsh Joint Education Committee on the development of a new Built Environment GCSE. This will be available from September 2021 and details can be found here.
Grants
On April 6 I announced that CITB would pay grants for second and third year apprentices in advance. Since then approximately £3.1m has been paid to over 1,800 employers, supporting 3,418 apprentices.
Our new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on April 1. To date we have received 203 applications. To apply for funding, please click here.
Sites Safety Plus Course Uptake
It’s been another positive week for Site Safety Plus (SSP) remote delivery. Confirmed courses delivered have doubled in the past week with over 150 delegates completing the courses.
Site Supervisors' Safety Training Scheme and Site Management Safety Training Scheme have been added to the list of SSP products available for remote delivery. These courses were launched by CITB’s Product team on Friday, 20 course notifications have been received since release. The full list of other remote learning standards can be seen here.
Health, Safety and Environment Test App
Our Health, Safety and Environment Test LITE App has had 1,730 downloads since its launch on March 24 (details here) with uptake increasing week on week – a 60% increase in the last week alone.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.
Register to join a free webinar hosted by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy at 11am on Tuesday 5 May to find out how small business can access the coronavirus business support measures that have been made available to UK businesses.
The webinar will cover:-
Eligibility for small business grants
Applying for a loan
Tax
Claiming for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
You will have the opportunity to ask questions during the webinar. If you would like to put forward a question in advance you can submit it via email to sed@beis.gov.uk by Friday 1st May.
Build UK and a number of its Trade Association members met with Paul Scully, Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Labour Markets, yesterday to discuss regulatory changes and other issues that would support SMEs during and after the coronavirus (COVID‐19) crisis. The Minister recognised the value of SMEs, stating that
“people will look back on this time and ask businesses what did you do to support your supply chain and community during the coronavirus pandemic”.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol was one of five representative organisations invited to speak on behalf of small businesses and requested the Minister’s support for the following:
Permission to Work
Reiterate the message that construction companies of all sizes are being asked to continue their operations alongside the Government’s ‘stay at home’ policy
Provide clarity on the work that tradesmen are able to carry out in people’s homes
Increase capacity on public transport, providing a safe way to travel to work.
Liquidity and Cash Flow
Ensure banks are efficiently processing Government‐backed loans
Delay or stop the introduction of Reverse Charge VAT in October 2020
Stop the withholding of retention monies by the public sector and release retention monies currently withheld
Effectively and consistently implement PPN 02/20 across all public authorities.
Maintaining Productivity
Confirm and accelerate public sector construction work in the pipeline
Ensure planning departments remain operational
Agree extended working hours for construction projects
Introduce flexibility into the furlough scheme.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has researched the impact of the Government‐backed loan schemes, with the support of Build UK Alliance member, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), which has published a short report. A number of the recommendations designed to improve the various schemes have already been taken forward, including the launch of the Bounce Back Loan Scheme for small businesses from 4 May 2020.
Following an excellent response to Build UK’s Materials & Accommodation Survey, it will now remain open until 5:00pm today. Please take a few moments to share your demand for materials, products and accommodation to help us open up the supply chain.
Several members have contacted the CFA asking if there is specific financial advice available to Floor Layers in the commercial sector during the Coronavirus epidemic.
Listening to those members, the CFA have put together the ‘Help For Floor Layers’ document.
‘Help For Floor Layers’ brings together all the financial information, advice and guidance available to help get support, budget finances and generally navigate these tough times.
There is also information on returning to work and what the ‘new normal’ will look like in the commercial flooring sector.
‘Help For Floorlayers’ is available to anyone FOR FREE on the CFA website just follow the link to download and keep.
Coronavirus testing extended to construction workers
Source - Construction Enquirer
Health secretary Nick Hancock has bowed to pressure to offer construction workers with coronavirus symptoms access to testing.
He confirmed on Tuesday that all workers and their families will be offered tests as testing capacity in the UK is ramped up to 73,000 per day.
Forty-one drive through testing centres are now in operation with a further 48 due to come on stream this week. A further 70 mobile testing stations largely operated by the army are also due to be operating by the end of the week.
Hancock said: "We now have the capacity to make testing available to all workers who have to leave home to go to work and members of their households who have symptoms."
He had come under pressure from construction union Unite to extend testing to construction workers because so many had kept working through the lockdown.
Unite assistant general secretary Gail Cartmail said:
“Unite is pleased that the government has supported our call to ensure that construction workers who continue to work can easily access testing for COVID-19".
This will significantly help prevent the spread of the virus on construction sites.
Testing alone however will not stop the spread of this deadly disease. It is imperative that construction workers are able to continually socially distance from when they leave home in the morning to when they return at night.
“The dangerous PHE guidance must be withdrawn and the Health and Safety Executive must step up to the plate and insist on procedures that require workers to social distance on sites at all times to reduce risks of infection."
It is hoped testing will help to provide evidence whether safe site working practices are preventing the spread of coronavirus on site.
The Government has announced that coronavirus (COVID‐19) testinghas been extended to anyone who goes into work because they cannot work from home and is showing symptoms of coronavirus. This includes construction workers, as well as people they live with who have symptoms, and there are two ways to arrange a test:
Self‐referral ‐ enables workers and members of their households who have symptoms to book a test directly using the online system
Employer referral ‐ allows employers to refer workers for a test via a secure portal. Employers will need to obtain a login by emailing portalservicedesk@dhsc.gov.uk with their organisation name, nature of their business, region, and names and email addresses for two users. Contractors may find it more efficient for clients already registered for their essential workers to request the test on their behalf.
Build UK Contractor members are continuing to reopen sites and reported this week that almost 70% of their sites are open in England and Wales. The majority are construction (81%) and infrastructure (78%) sites, with members that include housing in their portfolios confirming that less than half of their housing sites (46%) are open for business. Productivity on construction and infrastructure sites is averaging 67%, with London construction sites proving to be a particular challenge at just 56% output being achieved.
Information from Build UK Partner, Builders' Conference, which collects data on construction contracts across the UK, is showing the impact of coronavirus on the number and value of contracts awarded.
Today is World Day for Safety and Health at Work along with Workers’ Memorial Day and so, to raise awareness of these themes, this update concentrates on CITB’s work to support the construction industry on mental health, safety, and general wellbeing.
I hope the following resources and links: a blog on wellbeing, information on new online safety courses, and a short video outlining our work on mental health are helpful during these challenging times for industry.
Reaching out for help can be very difficult. But talking and sharing problems can help enormously. If anyone is in immediate crisis, I urge you to call the Construction Industry Helpline on 0345 605 1956 or the Samaritans free on 116 123. These services do a great job; they are there to help you.
CITB’s COVID-19 Wellbeing Blog
CITB’s Health and Safety Policy Lead, the Reverend Kevin Fear, has written a blog with useful tips on how to manage wellbeing and support your workforce during COVID-19, it can be read here. As Kevin writes, not everyone is comfortable talking about mental health at work, so the Lighthouse Club, a charity dedicated to the wellbeing of construction workers and their families, has created a helpline app which you can download here.
New Online Safety Courses
The first ever Site Safety Plus (SSP) remote learning courses took place earlier this month. I am pleased to announce that more have been added including the option to book the full Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) and Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme (SSSTS) courses. Please contact your local SSP training centre or use the SSP course locator tool to find a suitable date and time for your learning.
Our own training standards for Approved Training Organisations have been expanded to include 180 remote learning standards allowing centres to continue deliver training – including a range of site safety and mental health training courses. The full list can be seen here.
Video on CITB’s Mental Health Work
CITB Wales’ Partnerships Director Mark Bodger has made a brief video outlining the importance of World Day for Safety and Health at Work and Workers’ Memorial Day. Mark speaks about CITB’s work on training mental health first aiders and how people can help each other in these difficult times. You can watch the video here.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.
You can also read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
The Chancellor has launched a new 100% Government‐backed Bounce Back Loan Scheme for small businesses which will open for applications on Monday 4 May:
Small businesses will be able to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000 from an accredited lender and access the cash within days
The Government will pay any fees and interest for the first 12 months, as well as providing lenders with a 100% guarantee for the loan
No repayments will be due during the first 12 months
Loans can be applied for online using a short and simple form.
The new scheme will run alongside the existing Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, and the Government is taking additional steps to ensure lenders can process applications quickly, including changing the viability tests so that all a bank needs to assess is whether a business was viable pre‐coronavirus.
The Government has confirmed that coronavirus (COVID‐19) testing is now available for essential workers and members of their households who are showing symptoms of coronavirus. Some construction workers working on projects or infrastructure critical to the response to coronavirus may be categorised as essential workers.
There are two ways to arrange a test:
Self‐referral ‐ enables essential workers to book a test directly using the new online system
Employer referral ‐ allows employers to refer essential workers for a test via a secure portal. Employers will need to obtain a login by emailing portalservicedesk@dhsc.gov.uk with their organisation name, nature of their business, region, and names and email addresses for two users. Contractors may find it more efficient for clients already registered for their essential workers to request the test on their behalf.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will have a third conference call with Nadhim Zahawi, Minister for Business and Industry, later this week which Build UK will be attending.
Following concerns over services provided by utility companies in relation to site connections, Build UK has been notified that E.ON has remobilised and will now be connecting new buildings.
Build UK is receiving confirmation that the materials supply chain is starting to open up. You can help to accelerate this process by demonstrating the levels of demand via our short Materials & Accommodation Survey as soon as possible and by 5:00pm on Wednesday 29 April at the latest.
As part of our commitment to keep you updated on crucial communications topics, we wanted to let you know immediately about 2 critical announcements that have just been made.
Apprenticeship programme response to COVID-19
Version 3 of our guidance has just been published.
Further information on calculating wages for furloughed apprentices
Clarification that a furloughed employee can start an apprenticeship
Information on collecting signatures
Additional content on flexibilities of end-point assessment
Flexibilities for English and Maths functional skills for Intermediate (level 2) apprentices
Flexibilities on qualification certification
We will be setting up webinars shortly where the policy authors will go through the changes and take part in a question and answer session.
The webinars enable us to listen to your views and capture your valuable insight.
Provider Relief Scheme
This scheme is not only for Independent Training Providers. Any provider with AEB and non-levy apprenticeship contracts for services are eligible - subject to conditions.
The Provider Relief Scheme will open for applications today and is available to training providers with contracts for services that were procured as a service under the Public Contract Regulations 2015.
The purpose of the Relief Scheme is to ensure training providers can continue to deliver high quality education and training to make sure we have the skills needed to rebuild our economy post COVID-19.
This also includes supporting new learners where possible to get the skills they need to progress.
Training providers will need to demonstrate that they have a need for the funding requested in order to maintain capacity within their organisations to support learners and respond to the economic recovery.
If successful, providers will later need to provide a summary of how the funds have been used, and retain evidence, for audit purposes, that they have delivered activities prescribed by the scheme and that the funds have been used for eligible costs.
We reserve the right to recover unused funds or funds used inappropriately.
The closing date for applications is 30 April 2020 at midnight and providers will be notified if they are to receive support on or around 15 May 2020.
Richard Catt, CFA Chief Executive Officer asks, Can we Open Up Contract Flooring?
The message in all the video conference meetings I attended last week was clear. The government, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), main contractors and Build UK are pushing for us to get back to work.
But it is not as simple as that is it? Amongst other things, some materials are in short supply and accommodation difficult to find. Build UK have posted a short survey to assess what needs to be done.
Large or small flooring contractors, you can also contact the CFA with any specific concerns, and we will offer support. info@cfa.org.uk
The construction industry is adjusting to a ‘new normal’ after five weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus (COVID‐19). With at least another two weeks to go, there are a number of supply issues emerging, including material, product and accommodation shortages.
To open up the supply chain, Build UK is looking to demonstrate the levels of demand and members are asked to complete this short Materials & Accommodation Survey to provide the following information as soon as possible and by 5:00pm on Wednesday 29 April at the latest:
Contact details
Materials and products required and in what quantities
PPE required and in what quantities
Location of accommodation required and number of beds.
Last Friday, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Alok Sharma hosted a meeting of the key business sectors that operate ‘outdoors’ to discuss how the Government could improve its coronavirus guidance to industry.
Langley Roofing Systems, supported by CIC, has produced a short video that demonstrates safe and responsible guidance for workers on construction sites operating during the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, to ensure the protection of the workforce and minimise the risk of spread of infection.
This guidance advises how consistent measures on sites, of all sizes, can be responsibly and safely undertaken with adherence to the Government’s recommendations on social distancing.
To help ensure the safe operation on site within the construction industry , it has worked to develop site operating procedures, published by the Construction Leadership Council.
The article below by Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol was originally published in Building Magazine as part of its ‘Proud to Help’ campaign on Thursday 23 April 2020.
We have not seen the construction sector work together like this before
Never before have I been so proud to represent the construction industry. Faced with a crisis the likes of which we have not seen in our lifetimes, our sector has collaborated and worked with government in ways few would have thought possible, providing the information and guidance companies need to respond to the unprecedented circumstances they find themselves in.
As a result, we have been able to deliver on the government’s very specific ask to keep construction going for the good of the country and completed some incredible projects in support of the coronavirus response. Everyone is aware of the Nightingale hospitals, built rapidly and to demanding specifications in cities around the UK.
Construction companies are also continuing, and in some cases accelerating, work on numerous other projects to expand healthcare capacity. The industry is also donating hundreds of thousands of PPE items to frontline NHS staff.
In addition, we are carrying out vital work to keep the country’s infrastructure running, including highways and key transport links, alongside schools and social housing which will be needed when we emerge from the crisis into the ‘new normal’ (whatever that may look like).
Integral to keeping this essential work going was the development of the Site Operating Procedures, and Build UK was proud to play a key role, along with the Construction Leadership Council, in introducing the first version on 23 March. We followed up with detailed Guidance on Contractual Issues Caused by Coronavirus, which emphasised the need for a collaborative and long‐term approach to completing projects.
These are some significant accomplishments, but we cannot afford to take our foot off the pedal. To keep the industry going, we have got to keep the whole construction ‘ecosystem’ going. This means keeping builders’ merchants, transportation systems, specialist contractors and many other critical components of the supply chain functioning as close to 100% as possible.
This may not be an easy message for the public to receive and we saw some strong reactions, especially in the early days of the lockdown as we all got to grips with the new reality of living with coronavirus.
It is not always appreciated outside our sector that construction sites are highly controlled environments. They are required to meet very strict health and safety standards while performing some incredible feats.
We are an extremely resourceful and dedicated sector, and we are at our best when developing solutions to difficult problems. Companies have fundamentally changed the way they do things in order to adhere to the new Site Operating Procedures, much in the same way as they responded over the past two decades when making huge strides in reducing injuries on‐site. When faced with a challenge, construction does tend to respond well.
Finally, we must not forget just how important our sector is to the economy. Construction contributes at least 6% of the UK economy (GVA), directly employs more than 7% of the total UK workforce and supports a further 10%. As we emerge from this crisis, we are all going to need the whole sector to get back up to maximum capacity as quickly as possible, so it can continue to deliver on the UK’s significant housing and infrastructure needs.
I am proud to be leading ‘Team Build UK’, flying the flag for construction and supporting our industry at this difficult time.
Today’s industry summary contains updates on Grants, Skills and Training Fund and remote learning. There is also news on our Go Construct Buildathon competition and, to begin with, the newly launched Offsite Ready Project.
The Offsite Ready Project
We are pleased to say the CITB-funded Offsite Ready Project was launched today - digital brochure and information here. For background details on the investment, announced in June 2019, please click here.
Following industry feedback, we extended our Advanced Grant support to Higher Level Apprenticeships on April 7. Over £154K has been paid to 42 employers to support 172 apprentices since then.
Skills and Training Fund
Our new Skills and Training Fund for micro, small and medium sized businesses was launched on April 1. To date we have received 137 applications. To apply for funding please click here.
The Buildathon is in full swing and, I’m pleased to report, has exceeded expectations. The first webinar launch, on April 20, was a huge hit with contestants raring to go. We are fully booked for all regional events with just Buildathon 3 for England/Scotland (June) having limited spots left. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered to be a competition judge. I’m looking forward to seeing the shortlisted entries. Even if you cannot get a competition spot you can still download the Minecraft world from the 'Resources' section, via the Go Construct website, and have a go whenever you like!
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is refreshed daily and includes updates on the full range of our work.
You can also read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
CFA Guidance Regarding Employer Liability During Covid-19
Several members have contacted the CFA and raised concerns about employer liability claims during the Covid-19 pandemic. The CFA has therefore spoken to our solicitors and a specialist HR consultant. Their advice is summarised in a Q&A format through a Guidance note available on the members area of the CFA website:
Coronavirus and Employer Liability Claims
Question: - Is there a risk of me or my business being sued, if any of my employees who continue to work on site, contract the virus?
As far as is possible in the current crisis, my team has been working normally on site. I am concerned that if an employee contracts the virus, I may be held liable in some way, and could face the possibility of expensive legal action against my Company. With all the current difficulties, it's the last thing I want.
For the answer and further support details, please visit the members area of the CFA website or call the CFA office on 0115 941 1126 email: info@cfa.org.uk
The CFA understands the Government’s desire to keep the entire supply chain active and to support the continuation of construction and flooring works wherever possible. We share their concern that this should only happen when it is safe to do so.
CFA welcome the more robust guidance for “work planning to avoid close working”, including risk assessments and a hierarchy of controls. We would encourage members to review all the guidelines carefully and apply them appropriately. We understand that some members still have concerns about social distancing on site and we would draw their attention to the following in V3 of the SOP.
PHE guidance for construction states “Where it is not possible to follow the social distancing guidelines in full in relation to a particular activity, you should consider whether that activity needs to continue for the site to continue to operate, and, if so, take all the mitigating actions possible to reduce the risk of transmission”
The health and safety requirements of any construction activity must also not be compromised at this time. If an activity cannot be undertaken safely, it should not take place."
Cash flow is now critical, and the Government has made available an unprecedented level of financial support for businesses and individuals affected by coronavirus (COVID‐19). Below is a reminder of the key measures, including grants, loans and tax relief, and make sure you are taking advantage of the support for your business:
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ‐ Employers can claim 80% of an employee’s monthly wages, up to a maximum of £2,500, plus any employer National Insurance and pension contributions, by placing them on furlough leave. The online claims service is available now and the Government has published step by step guidance on making a claim. Claims should be paid within six working days.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme ‐ Employers with fewer than 250 employees, as of 28 February 2020, can recover the costs of paying SSP to employees for sickness absence due to coronavirus or self‐isolation for up to 2 weeks from 13 March 2020. The online system is not yet available so make sure you are keeping records.
Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme ‐ Small and medium‐sized businesses, with an annual turnover of up to £45 million, can access loans, overdrafts, invoice finance and asset finance of up to £5 million for up to 6 years. The Government will make a Business Interruption Payment to cover the first 12 months of interest payments and any lender‐levied fees, meaning no upfront costs and lower initial repayments. Apply now from an accredited lender by following the steps on the British Business Bank website and there is guidance from ICAEW on preparing a strong application.
Deferral of VAT ‐ UK VAT‐registered businesses which have a VAT payment due between 20 March and 30 June 2020 can defer the payment until on or before 31 March 2021. You do not need to tell HMRC that you are deferring payment and you will still need to submit your VAT returns on time. If you normally pay by Direct Debit, you should cancel it by contacting your bank. Further information about how to repay the deferred VAT will be available soon.
Small Business Grants Fund (SBGF) ‐ Eligible businesses in England in receipt of either Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR) or Rural Rates Relief (RRR) are eligible for a payment of £10,000. Companies that are eligible will be contacted by their Local Authority to arrange payment.
Coronavirus Future Fund ‐ UK‐based companies which rely on equity investment and are unable to access the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme can receive Government loans ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, subject to at least equal match funding from private investors. The fund will be launched in May 2020.
To determine which support your business may be eligible for, visit the Government’s Business Support Finder and provide a few key details about your business, such as size, location and turnover.
Build UK continues to work on behalf of its members and the wider industry in response to coronavirus (COVID‐19) and we are currently focussed on the following:
Opening up the supply chain by demonstrating the demand for materials
Liaising with the Local Government Association to facilitate the extension of permitted working hours for construction sites across the country
Assessing the availability of hotel accommodation for construction workers living away from home
Seeking further guidance from Public Health England (PHE) on:
the use of PPE and RPE to prevent the transmission of coronavirus on construction sites
the interpretation of 15 minutes’ face to face contact as set out in the Government’s guidance on Social Distancing in the Workplace for the construction sector.
Build UK also continues to be involved in the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Task Force, which is working on the following:
A review of Government‐backed loans and their suitability for construction businesses
Alternatives to invoking contractual clauses which are likely to be detrimental to the supply chain
An industry recovery plan
Releasing workers from furlough following the lockdown
Advice on re‐opening offices following extended periods of closure.
Today’s update details our increase of training standards suitable for remote learning for industry, from 22 to 180.
Remote Learning
CITB’s training standards have been adapted to support accredited Approved Training Organisations (ATOs), employers, delegates and those furloughed under the UK Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
The aim is twofold; firstly, to maintain skills training during COVID-19 and help ensure people are work-ready when the national situation improves. We hope that by conducting as many courses as possible through video link interfaces like Microsoft Teams, Skype, Zoom and WebEx, this will help training to continue in some capacity. Secondly, our work continues to support ATOs to operate so that where possible their skills and training provision is safeguarded for the future.
We have reviewed all the Standards that can be delivered through remote learning: 180 can now be delivered by ATOs. Standards that can be delivered via remote learning include: Asbestos Awareness; Construction Design and Management Regulations; and mental health first aid. The full list of 180 remote learning standards available will be sent to ATOs later this week and be available on our website shortly after.
Since March 23, 90 Site Safety Plus Courses have been registered for delivery by remote learning, 31 have taken place. These courses have been delivered successfully using this new format by 20 training providers.
We've created a support guide outlining the rules and changes for remote learning during the pandemic, you can view it here. Please ensure you adhere to UK Government guidelines on COVID-19 when delivering learning remotely.
If you have any questions relating to remote learning, please contact us via our dedicated mailbox:ctdservices@citb.co.uk.
Coronavirus (COVID‐19) has had a significant impact on construction projects across the country. Whilst the majority of infrastructure projects were able to implement the Site Operating Procedures without too many delays, city centre building sites and those with limited space have taken time to adjust to the new ways of working.
We know that further support is required on a number of issues, including credit insurance, supply of materials, relaxation of restricted working hours, PPE, close working and accommodation for workers, and Build UK is working to provide additional guidance where we can. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is also looking at a recovery plan for the industry and how to release workers from furlough in a phased manner. Following its Statement on Payment and Contracts earlier this month, the CLC also continues to call for collaborative ways of working to avoid costly contractual disputes which are more than likely to result in insolvencies.
Whilst construction clients have responded in different ways, the Government has been very clear on the response expected from public sector clients. Earlier this month the Cabinet Office published supplementary Guidance Notes for Construction Contracts to support contracting authorities in implementing PPN 02/20 ‐ Supplier Relief due to COVID‐19.
PPN 02/20 applies until 30 June 2020 to all contracts let under the:
Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR)
Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011
Once you have submitted your claim, you’ll get a claim reference number. HMRC will then check that your claim is correct and pay the claim amount by BACS into your bank account within six working days.
Check theGovernment's step by step guide to submitting claims for furloughed employees and, to avoid any delays with your submission.
With cash flow the major concern for employers, the launch of the online claims service for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme today should help to provide some relief.
Check the Government’s step by step guide to submitting claims for furloughed employees and, to avoid any delays with your submission, make sure you have got the following to hand before you start:
A Government Gateway ID and password ‐ if you don’t already have an account, you can apply online
Be registered for PAYE online ‐ if you aren’t yet registered, you can register online. If you have an agent authorised to act for you on PAYE matters online, they can submit a claim on your behalf
The number of furloughed employees you are claiming for with the following information for each individual:
Name
National Insurance number
Payroll or employee number
Claim period and full claim amount, including National Insurance contributions and employer minimum pension contributions
If you have fewer than 100 furloughed employees, you will need to input the information directly into the system for each employee. If you have 100 or more furloughed employees, you will need to upload a file (.xls .xlsx .csv .ods) with the information
The following information for your business:
Employer PAYE reference number
Unique Taxpayer Reference or Company Registration Number
UK bank account and contact details.
The Chancellor confirmed on Friday that the scheme has been extended by one month until 30 June and there is an online calculator to help work out how much can be claimed.
Once you have submitted your claim, you’ll get a claim reference number. HMRC will then check that your claim is correct and pay the claim amount by BACS into your bank account within six working days. Any queries regarding the online service should be directed to the HMRC webchat service.
The Government has confirmed that the current lockdown will be extended by at least three weeks, which means that construction sites must continue to implement the Site Operating Procedures ‐ Version 3 for the foreseeable future. Projects are adapting site facilities and introducing extended working hours, and Build UK members Highways England, Wates and VolkerWessels UK have all shared examples of how social distancing is being achieved.
The announcement followed the latest industry conference call with Minister for Business and Industry Nadhim Zahawi, where Build UK members Mark Reynolds, Chief Executive of Mace, and Julie White, Managing Director of D‐Drill and a Specialist Contractor member of the Drilling and Sawing Association (DSA), gave a first‐hand update on the current challenges faced by the supply chain.
Today’s update provides more detail on the exciting Go Construct Buildathon competitions we launched a couple of weeks ago. I would also like to signpost you to version 3 of Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Site Operating Procedures which were published this week.
Go Construct Buildathon Competitions
CITB is keen to continue making the best use of our existing resources to inspire the next generation of construction workers. The challenging Minecraft competitions, available in England, Scotland and Wales, are designed so children (aged 5-12) and their families can learn more about the sector while having fun together in these very difficult times.
Competitions: The Buildathon will mean children can discover the exciting variety of roles within our sector by designing and building a construction project using Minecraft Education Edition. Families will be able to work together as a team and use construction skills to design and build a winning structure that is unique, sustainable and environmentally friendly - all while having fun indoors. And don’t forget the fantastic prizes for the winners kindly provided by Microsoft.
Families are encouraged to join in with the design phase of the competition however children must do 100% of the building in the Minecraft world.
The first competition takes place next week in Wales with England and Scotland the following week (details here). There are further Go Construct Buildathon competitions scheduled for May and June. This is one example of a suite of support materials designed to attract children and young people into construction.
Supporting parents: Live webinars providing instructions for parents and carers on how to access Minecraft at home (for free) and how to participate in the competition challenge, will take place on the following dates:
England and Scotland, Monday 27 April - Register here
You can also register for the Go Construct Minecraft Buildathon competitions here.
If you would like further educational activities to try at home, a range of lesson plans for all ages are available. Part of the Go Construct Educate resources delivered successfully in schools over the last couple of years, they can be accessed here.
CLC Site Operating Procedures
Version 3 of the CLC Site Operating Procedures were published this week. We appreciate there are different requirements across Scotland, England and Wales, information for employers can be found on our recently launched employer information database here.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the National Construction Colleges (NCCs).
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
Tomorrow, we will provide a full update on the take-up and impact of all measures now in place to support, retain and train our construction workforce and I will aim to provide this weekly going forward.
Build UK partner Citation will be running another free 90‐minute webinar for members on Wednesday 22 April at 12:30pm. This will include the latest updates on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the new Good Work Plan effective from 6 April 2020, as well as up to date health and safety guidance. To register your place, please complete the online form.
The Government has updated its guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme including:
Extending the eligibility cut‐off date so that employers can now claim for furloughed employees that were on their PAYE payroll and notified to HMRC on an RTI submission on or before 19 March 2020 (rather than 28 February 2020)
If an employee went on unpaid leave on or before 28 February 2020, a company cannot furlough them until the date on which it was agreed they would return from unpaid leave
Companies will need to submit the following information for each furloughed employee:
Name
National Insurance number
Claim period and amount
Payroll/employee number (optional)
Claims should be submitted via the online portal which is expected to be available next Monday 20 April 2020 as follows:
Fewer than 100 furloughed employees ‐ enter details of each employee individually
100 or more furloughed employees ‐ upload a file (.xls .xlsx .csv .ods) with the details for all employees
Companies should retain all records and calculations in respect of their claims.
The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has confirmed that the three‐week minimum period for furloughing an employee will remain in place. Furloughed employees can not undertake any work for the company which includes providing services or generating revenue.
CLC - Site Operating Procedure V3 - Reporting Non-Compliance
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the enforcing authority for PHE guidelines and will consider a range of actions for non‐compliance, from providing advice to issuing enforcement and prohibition notices. It has also set up a website for workers to report concerns about health and safety where they cannot be resolved by speaking with their employer or trade union.
If members have any concerns the CFA would also like to be notified and we can be contacted on tel 0115 941 1126 or email info@cfa.org.uk
We know from our weekly calls with Build UK members that they are looking to re‐open their sites and increase capacity in accordance with the Site Operating Procedures ‐ Version 3 published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) yesterday. These incorporate the latest guidance on Social distancing in the workplace during coronavirus (COVID‐19) from Public Health England (PHE) and reinforce the need for sites to monitor their implementation. Please circulate the updated version within your own organisations as well as to your members and supply chains.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is the enforcing authority for PHE guidelines and will consider a range of actions for non‐compliance, from providing advice to issuing enforcement and prohibition notices. It has also set up a website for workers to report concerns about health and safety where they cannot be resolved by speaking with their employer or trade union.
The Government has updated its guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme including:
Extending the eligibility cut‐off date so that employers can now claim for furloughed employees that were on their PAYE payroll and notified to HMRC on an RTI submission on or before 19 March 2020 (rather than 28 February 2020)
If an employee went on unpaid leave on or before 28 February 2020, a company cannot furlough them until the date on which it was agreed they would return from unpaid leave
Companies will need to submit the following information for each furloughed employee:
Name
National Insurance number
Claim period and amount
Payroll/employee number (optional)
Claims should be submitted via the online portal which is expected to be available next Monday 20 April 2020 as follows:
Fewer than 100 furloughed employees ‐ enter details of each employee individually
100 or more furloughed employees ‐ upload a file (.xls .xlsx .csv .ods) with the details for all employees
Companies should retain all records and calculations in respect of their claims.
The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has confirmed that the three‐week minimum period for furloughing an employee will remain in place. Furloughed employees can not undertake any work for the company which includes providing services or generating revenue.
Build UK partner Citation will be running another free 90‐minute webinar for members on Wednesday 22 April at 12:30pm. This will include the latest updates on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the new Good Work Plan effective from 6 April 2020, as well as up to date health and safety guidance. To register your place, please complete the online form.
Today the update on CITB’s support to industry during COVID-19 focuses on how we have been gathering employer feedback to help improve the products and services we have available during these tough times.
Acting on Feedback
During this time many of you will have been contacted by CITB’s Partnership or Apprenticeships teams. I can assure you that this feedback directly influences the changes and developments we have carried out over the past weeks.
We’ve received positive feedback about the interventions we’ve made including the levy suspension. We are continuing to review all plans and levels of support, as well as talk to Government about what support is needed by the sector during this crisis and beyond.
The CITB Nations Councils continue to meet and provide our Board with vital sectors intelligence and suggestions. The first meeting in this latest round took place this morning in Wales, digitally, and we will see the England and Scotland councils meet in the next few weeks and look forward to hearing their collective voice.
We receive regular feedback from employers on refresher and renewal courses. CITB has enabled SMSTS and SSSTS refresher courses through remote learning – find your local Site Safety Plus training centre through the SSP course locator. We are also reviewing a number of standards that will support training through remote learning.
CITB’s Re-sizing
As previously confirmed and like many businesses, we are having to temporarily reduce the size of the organisation during this period, in line with our activity. We are in the process of reducing staffing levels by approximately 50% to ensure we maintain a level of service to our customers, while protecting industry funds as much as possible.
We are aware many of you will have taken similar steps in recent weeks and for us this comes at the end of an extremely busy few weeks of activity, where many colleagues in the CITB team have worked tirelessly to make possible many of the support measures I have previously shared, and as quickly as we could.
In summary, I’d like to thank you for your feedback which we welcome as this has helped shape our immediate response. I would also like to thank all those colleagues within CITB that have made it happen. I confirm we will keep you updated with how things are continuing to develop in the coming days and weeks.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the National Construction Colleges (NCCs).
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
Version 3 of the Site Operating Procedures which has now been published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). We can only apologise for the delay; as we are all finding at the moment, nothing is quite as easy as it should be.
Confirmation that the HSE is the enforcing authority for PHE guidelines
The need for sites to monitor the implementation of the procedures
Further details on who should not travel to work
Guidance for those who have no option but to share transport to work
Information on the hierarchy of controls which should be implemented to reduce the risk of transmission where social distancing of 2 metres cannot be achieved
Information on first aid and emergency service response.
The latest PHE guidance for construction states that “where face‐to‐face contact is essential, this should be kept to 15 minutes or less wherever possible”. We have requested further clarification from PHE on this point.
We are also seeking further guidance on the use of RPE on construction sites as a means of reducing the transmission of Coronavirus (COVID‐19).
Please note that you may be required to refresh your browser cache in order to view the latest version of the Site Operating Procedures. This can be done in Windows by pressing Ctrl+Shift+R or on a Mac with Cmd+Shift+R.
I hope you had a good Easter break. Today my update on CITB’s support to industry during COVID-19 is focused on the launch of the new £5m Leadership and Management Development Fund and help for Approved Training Organisations (ATOs).
Leadership and Management Development Fund (LMDF)
The new LMDF launched today will ensure that construction businesses of all sizes can improve their leadership and management skills.
Micro, small and medium-sized businesses can do so via the CITB Skills and Training Fund, which was recently refreshed and expanded to support sustainability and skill retention.
Larger CITB registered businesses - those with over 250 employees - can now apply via the LMDF.
Employers have told us that improving leadership and management is a top priority. I’m pleased to say the LMDF will support a wide range of activity. This includes either in-house or distance and e-learning as well as support for bespoke training resources.
We will evaluate this funding for leadership and management skills and training in future so that it can deliver the greatest benefit to employers of all sizes.
Companies can apply from £5k up to £100k, with funding available in stages for a year though we will review the COVID-19 situation and be flexible about start dates. Fund guidelines outline the learning outcomes permitted and the deadline for applications is 12 June - please visit this page to apply.
I hope industry as a whole will take the opportunity to apply for the new range of funding CITB has made available over the last three weeks. All funds have been adjusted so they are as relevant as possible to the full range of employer sizes in the current economic climate. These rules will be continually reviewed to make sure they remain appropriate.
Remember, CITB Local and Partnership Managers as well as Advisers are there to help with your application. You can find support here.
Approved Training Organisations (ATOs)
A CITB Approved Training Organisation - or ATO - provides construction training courses and qualifications to a defined standard (more here).
As part of the work to help ATOs provide training to construction employers during COVID-19, CITB has extended the time ATOs have to deliver “assured” courses (where CITB has specifically defined how training is delivered).
In normal circumstances ATOs would need to complete a self-assessment in 30 days, following a course becoming standardised. The benefit to employers of this extension is this will allow ATOs with furloughed staff to complete self-assessments later and continue to provide standardised training to industry. There is more information here.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the National Construction Colleges (NCCs).
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government.
At the beginning of the month the CFA were pleased to announce an additional support service for CFA members, a HR specialist/Consultant, Charles Waterlow.
Charles has put together some useful FAQ’s on ‘Furlough’ available below and is also available for an initial telephone consultation free of charge, but this can be escalated to email and even site support if required.
Charles can be contacted on his mobile number 07774 277352 or emailed at charleswaterlow@gmail.com. As ever, the CFA is working for you, to deliver meaningful benefits.
I haven’t issued contracts to my employees. Can I furlough them?
Ideally you will have issued contracts since with effect from the 6th April 2020 it became a legal requirement to issue all employees with a contract of employment, (or a written statement of employment particulars) from their first day of work. Formerly it was a requirement to issue a contract within 8 weeks of commencing employment. If the contract contains a ‘lay off’ clause allowing the employer to ‘lay off' employees when there is a shortage of work, then furloughing employees can be done by simply advising staff and confirming it in writing. If there is no clause or a contract has not been issued, you will have to consult with employees and seek their consent. In the current circumstances it is unlikely that staff will resist, and thereafter you will have to confirm the furlough in writing.
Having placed my employees on furlough, when will I be able to claim back the furlough pay?
The government have announced that the HMRC portal will go live on the 20th April
It’s the bank holiday, and some furloughed staff also have holidays booked over the next few weeks. Can they cancel their holiday?
Employees can be on holiday during a period of furlough, although they must be paid in full for the days of holiday, rather than receiving 80% furlough pay. So for example over the Easter bank holiday you should pay in full for the two public holidays and it will come out of their 8 day annual public holiday entitlement. What about employees who pre-booked holiday before the shutdown? Most Employers are allowing staff to defer their holiday until later in the year. Although it is likely to be unpopular, an Employer could technically insist that the pre-booked holiday comes out of their annual holiday entitlement. Once again they must be paid in full for the days of annual leave.
Can I furlough someone who is off sick or just returning from sick leave?
Employers are free to switch employees from sickpay to furlough and vice versa, although this should not be abused by using furlough to 'top up' small amounts of SSP for short term absences. Also, employers can furlough 'shielding' employees, and they do not have to be placed on sickpay.
I have apprentices. Can they be furloughed?
Yes they can be furloughed and can continue to receive training, however they cannot do any work that would further the organisation’s business.
As a Company Director, can I furlough myself?
Yes, Directors can be furloughed and can continue to discharge their statutory duties, although they must not undertake any work which would generate commercial revenue or provide services to or on behalf of their company. When furloughing a company director this should be formally adopted as a decision of the company, noted in the company records and communicated in writing to the director.
It is hard to believe that we have been dealing with the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic for four weeks now and we have issued a Build UK update every day since it started. The relentless pace and volume of change, along with the unprecedented level of information to be absorbed, has created significant challenges for many in the industry.
Following the Easter break, which offered the opportunity to re‐group and look ahead, more sites are expected to re‐open, implementing the new ways of working required for the ‘social distancing’ environment in which we now live. The calls from Build UK and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) for collaboration across the industry have reminded everyone that there will be a post‐coronavirus world and it is in all our interests to maintain and sustain the construction supply chain.
There will be more changes this week, starting with publication of the Site Operating Procedures ‐ Version 3 later today. These will include the latest Public Health England (PHE) guidance on Social distancing in the workplace during coronavirus (COVID‐19) published last week, additional information on the hierarchy of control measures to reduce the risk of transmission, and the need to monitor implementation of the procedures.
The latest PHE guidelines include the following statements:
“Where it is not possible to follow the social distancing guidelines in full in relation to a particular activity, you should consider whether that activity needs to continue for the site to continue to operate, and, if so, take all the mitigating actions possible to reduce the risk of transmission.”
In the Transport Businesses guidance under ‘Use of private vehicles and car pooling’:
"If the journey is essential, such as travel to work, and there is no option but to share a car with people who are not part of the same household, journeys should be shared with the same individuals and with the minimum number of people at any one time.”
Update on Claiming for Employees Wages - Covid-19 Job Retention Scheme
Source - www.gov.uk
The Government have announced that the portal for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (for employees on temporary leave - 'furlough' due to Covid-19) should be open by the 20 of April 2020. Further details can be found here
Build UK members are keen to see manufacturers, suppliers and builders merchants increase the supply of goods and materials to construction sites as they look to re‐open sites after the Easter break. Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Alok Sharma, has written an open letter to the manufacturing sector thanking all those that are at work and saying: “Manufacturing is a critical part of our economy and I would like to be clear that there is no restriction on manufacturing continuing under the current rules”.
With a collaborative approach already being taken by some, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has issued a statement calling for construction businesses to pay in accordance with agreed contractual terms. It is vital that all parties understand the implications of the current situation on their contracts and work together to find solutions. Build UK and Wedlake Bell LLP have updated the Guidance on Contractual Issues Caused by Coronavirus, adding an appendix to show the corresponding sub‐contract clause numbers for both JCT and NEC standard forms of contract.
HMRC confirmed yesterday that the online claims portal for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme should be open by 20 April, with the first grant payments made to businesses by the end of the month. Whilst furloughed employees may not carry out any work for their employer, they may undertake training (as long as it does not generate income or provide services to the company) and there is a range of support being offered across the industry. If the employer requires the employee to undertake any training whilst furloughed, the employee must be paid at least the minimum wage, even if this is more than 80% of their wage that will be subsidised.
We see a mixed picture of activity across the regions and nations with many of you not able to work at this time due to the COVID-19 crisis. However, Government guidelines allow even those who are furloughed to still undertake training, and even if it’s not your top priority right now, some time can be used to keep skills up to date with the latest trade developments.
As I mentioned in an earlier update, we’re adapting courses for remote learning to help keep you working or be ready to return to work as soon as the national situation improves. We’re also keen to provide support and opportunities for training providers, who are obviously facing significant challenges at the moment.
We’re reviewing training that meets CITB’s Assured Standards and have identified 22 that can be delivered through remote learning, or online video links like Teams, Skype, Zoom, WebEx and others.
The full list includes courses such as floor repair, effective snagging and pre-handover checks, and asbestos management. It is available to view here.
Employer Support Database
We’ve also compiled a database of local and regional advice services that we’ve been using and signposting to employers across England, Scotland and Wales during this crisis. We’ve been asked to make the database more widely available and have uploaded it to the website – it’s available here.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click here to view it.
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government please click here.
Firstly, we would like to say a massive well done to all our Clients over the last two weeks, it has been a complete roller-coaster of fast-moving Government guidelines and restrictions.
As you are aware the Construction sector is still permitted to operate in line with Government guidelines. However, some Companies have taken a decision to temporary shut down operations for a number of reasons including operating restrictions, lack of supplies or a reduction in current workload. Also, some Companies continue to operate where possible.
As you will aware the Construction Industry has the temporary lay-off provision within its sector, and this can be utilised where the provision is found within an employee’s contract of employment.
For sectors that did not have this provision the Government rolled out the “Furlough” scheme.
The HMRC are currently in the process of putting together the Job Retention Scheme (JRS) by way of a portal.
The scheme will enable Employers to claim 80% of each eligible employees normal pay up to a limit of £2500.00 per month. The monies will be transferred into the Company’s bank account via bacs and claims can be made every three weeks.
Employers have been advised to continue to pay 80% of the employees’ this can be backdated to the 1 March 2020, where applicable.
Some Companies are topping up the wage to 100%, this is not a requirement and is at the discretion of the Company. As employers have to bear in mind future cashflow to sustain the business.
If Employers need short term cash flow support, they may be eligible for the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme.
Where an employee has been placed on temporary lay-off, they would switch to a furlough worker once the HMRC portal is available and the date of their claim would be backdated to when they were laid-off.
TMS will continue to operate throughout this current situation and please feel free to contact us should you need any guidance, templates etc.
Temporary Lay-Off
Temporary lay-off increase to £30.00 per day from 06 April 2020
Or 5 days x £30.00 = £150 a week
After 13 weeks of lay-off a second payment of £30.00 x 5 (£150.00) is due
Compensation Award
From 6th April 2020 the maximum award for unfair dismissal will be £ 88,519.00
Redundancy Pay
Redundancy pay has increased to £538.00 - per week from 6 April 2020
Maximum redundancy payment (30 x £538.00) = £16,140.00
National Living Wage & National Minimum Wage increase - 1st April 2020
In the last 36 hours, there has been updated guidance published by Public Health England and the Scottish and Welsh Governments in respect of construction sites and social distancing requirements.
This followed publication of construction sector guidance by the Scottish Government, setting out what it considers to be essential projects that can continue working. It also confirmed what are considered to be non‐essential services that, subject to limited exceptions, should be halted at this stage.
The Site Operating Procedures will be reviewed as a priority in light of the latest guidance for each nation, and we will provide an update following the daily Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Task Force meeting later this morning.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19 we’ve been getting in touch to help you access the range of support we’ve developed during this crisis. Today my update focuses on funding and support and the contact we’ve had with employers over the past few weeks.
Funding
A fortnight ago we announced advance attendance grant payments for apprentices. As of yesterday (6 April) we’ve received 1,800 applications, with £975,000 paid out to employers so far and more on the way – you can apply here.
Having listened to employers, we are extending the advanced apprenticeship grant payment to include higher level apprentices in the final year of their programme and are close to completing their apprenticeship in England and Wales, or a key level within it in Scotland. This will maximise the opportunity for these learners to qualify and add value to industry – you can apply here.
Apprenticeship officers have contacted more than 10,000 apprentices and their employers in England, Scotland and Wales, to make them aware of support available. While many of these apprentices have been furloughed during lockdown, thankfully to date less than 1% of those contacted have been made redundant.
Support
In the past few weeks our partnerships team has contacted more than 1,000 employers to provide support and have helped many access help from Government and local agencies. The team has received feedback helping us respond to emerging needs. They have also assisted many companies to claim grant which has resulted in an additional £1.1million in funding being paid to employers this week, with more being processed.
We’ve also been directing you to the latest updates on our response to COVID-19 which are posted on the 'Urgent Messages' page of the CITB website. This page has so far received 36,000 views, directly resulting in employers contacting us to access advice and support.
Feedback from industry saw us provide greater flexibility to the expanded Skills and Training Fund which will allocate £10million to micro and small businesses to allow investment in skills and training and an additional £4million for medium-sized companies. Any companies that have a live Skills and Training Fund project, but due to current circumstances need to change the content of the planned programme, should contact us at skills.training@citb.co.uk
We have also suspended issuing levy bills for at least three months and are monitoring the current situation while discussing matters regularly with Government. A number of staff members will be furloughed where possible without impacting frontline services for employers.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click here to view it.
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government please click here.
As part of the cross-government efforts to respond to the impact of COVID-19, the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) is implementing new measures, for the duration of the pandemic, to make it easier for apprenticeships to continue and complete in a different way if they need to, or to break and resume an apprenticeship later when that becomes possible. Version 2 of our guidance has just been published and it can be read here:
This version focuses on furloughed workers, but also contains information on pausing new funding audits, and a selection of updated FAQs.
We are continuing to respond to the sector and anticipate future iterations of the guidance to follow whenever necessary.
Finally, here is the link to the HMRC guidance covering furloughed apprentices that was published on Saturday
New Scottish guidance calls for non-essential construction works to cease at once
Source – Scottish Construction Now
The Scottish Government has made clear that work on construction sites should stop immediately unless it is supporting crucial work during the coronavirus pandemic.
In new guidance for the construction industry, which comes into effect immediately, any project deemed essential can only continue operating if it can comply with guidance on social distancing, safety and welfare during the COVID-19 outbreak. Any site unable to meet these requirements should close, the guidance adds.
Essential projects include:
Those to create or repurpose facilities which will be used directly in COVID-19 related activities
Projects to create or repurpose facilities which will be used to accommodate key workers, or free up space in facilities to be used drectly in COVID-19 related activities
Projects which are considered essential public services
The repair and maintenance of critical infrastructure
NHS boards will make decisions on their own individual sites and projects, in conjunction with contractors.
Critical National Infrastructure
Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sectors define those facilities, systems, sites and networks necessary for the functioning of the country and the delivery of the essential services upon which daily life in Scotland depends.
Essential services are the fundamental services that underpin daily life and ensure the country continues to function.
There are 13 designated CNI sectors:
Energy
Communications – Telecommunications, Public Broadcast, Postal Services, Internet.
Government
Transport
Finance
Civil nuclear
Defence
Chemicals
Space
Health
Food
Water and waste
Emergency services
Even where businesses are in the CNI category and judge themselves to be exempt from closure of business premises, it is imperative that they keep open only those premises or parts of premises that are truly critical or essential to the national COVID-19 effort. For example, related logistics or administrative staff should work from home wherever possible, and non-essential staff must work from home.
Employers and employees should discuss their working arrangements, including with trades unions where present, and employers should take every possible step to facilitate their employees working from home, including providing suitable IT and equipment to enable remote working.
Sometimes this will not be possible, as not everyone can work from home. Business should look critically at their role and operations.
Non-essential services
Work on construction in the following sectors should be halted at this stage, subject to limited exceptions, as laid out later in this guidance:
Domestic housing
Schools, further and higher education institutions and early years provision
Office buildings and other commercial properties
Leisure
Retail
Warehousing
Garages and showroom
Ecclesiastical
Community centres
Non-health related civic buildings
Public realm - hard and soft including (but not limited to) roads, which includes footpaths, footways, cycle lanes and verges; pavements; parks; and grassy areas
Justice and custodial
Operations should be shut down safely and securely, ensuring that partially built structures are safe, and if necessary, wind- and water-tight, associated equipment is properly stored, and sites have suitable security for the duration. Exceptionally, if sites can be safely completed within five working days they can be completed.
Companies should put in place suitable arrangements for monitoring site security and safety, and personnel may be allowed on-site to carry out essential remedial work in line with existing contracts, or in the light of urgent work emerging.
Economy secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “We recognise that this is an extremely difficult time for businesses of all kinds, but the Scottish Government’s priority is saving lives and fighting COVID-19."
"To this end, all construction sites should close unless they are essential to the health and welfare of the country during this crisis. I want to make clear our thanks to the construction workers who are continuing to work on these essential projects."
"This guidance offers clear and comprehensive advice on how the industry should respond in these unprecedented and difficult times. I am grateful to the STUC, Unite the Union and Construction Scotland for their input."
“In this public health emergency, it is vital that all businesses act responsibly and align fully with the social distancing measures introduced to protect the nation’s heath, well-being and economic future.”
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Task Force continues to meet daily, providing the focal point for the industry’s response to coronavirus. It is comprised of the major industry trade associations, representing both large and small firms across the whole construction supply chain, as well as the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
Facilitating communication between the industry and Government, its objectives include:
Identifying issues of concern to construction
Determining the support required by the industry
Providing information and advice to businesses in the industry
Sharing market intelligence
Ensuring the industry is able to drive economic growth and prosperity post‐coronavirus.
As a member of the task force, Build UK has a direct route to Government, and the information received during our conference calls with members each week is invaluable in providing an up to date view of the current issues and impact of coronavirus on the industry.
Unfortunately, the Build UK Twitter account appears to have gone into self‐isolation and is not currently available! We are hoping to have it back up and running shortly but, in the meantime, please follow @SuzannahNichol for the latest updates.
Today we launch Go Construct Buildathon competitions - exciting challenges that we hope will provide support for children and parents alike during this prolonged school shutdown.
Amid all that is going on, we’ll be making the best use of our existing resources to continue to inspire the next generation of the construction workforce. These challenging Minecraft competitions will allow children and their families to learn more about the sector while having fun together.
I saw recently first-hand at schools in Wales how Minecraft is phenomenally popular with young learners, so starting later in April and continuing through May and June we’ll be holding Go Construct Buildathon competitions for each of the home countries of England, Scotland and Wales. This is one example of a suite of support to attract children and young people into construction.
Children aged 5-12 and their families will be able to find out about the exciting variety of roles within our sector by designing and building a construction project through Minecraft Education, with fantastic prizes from Microsoft.
Our partner Aspire 2Be will host live webinars to support parents and carers, providing instructions on how to access Minecraft at home for free and how to participate in the competition challenge.
We’d really appreciate your support in getting this message out to parents, children and schools in your locality to demonstrate another way of how the industry is coming together in this time of national crisis.
You can register for the Go Construct Minecraft Buildathon competitions here. If you are interested in getting involved with judging the competitions, please contact donna.griffiths@citb.co.uk
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click here to view it.
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government please click here.
At this difficult time, we hope you are all keeping safe and that COVID19 will ease as quickly as possible.
Unfortunately, Recofloor will be suspending collections until further notice.
We will accept collections requests until Tuesday 7th April 2020 at 5pm and material will be collected by Thursday 9th April 2020 at 5pm - after that Recofloor collections will be paused until the situation changes.
We would like to thank all of our members for their continued support. If possible, we ask you to bulk store any vinyl flooring you might have after this week at your premises. We would also ask you to keep bags and bins stored in a secure location during this time.
We will continue to keep you updated through social media channels and contact you once we resume collections.
We are entering the third week of lockdown and liquidity is now the critical issue for construction. This point was made loud and clear to the Construction and HS2 Ministers last week by representatives from across the supply chain.
The response from clients and contractors will be key to the survival of businesses of all sizes. There is a choice: fall back on contracts, pay for costly legal advice, and prepare for adversarial disputes or bring the supply chain together, and collectively look at how construction work can continue without putting workers at risk.
Build UK continues to work closely with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) to ensure that the Government supports the construction sector and that our members have access to all the information and advice they need to make decisions at this difficult time.
Our inbox is overflowing with messages but please rest assured that we are reading everything we receive! The CLC has already written to the Prime Minister to set out additional financial measures to support the industry, and we continue to raise the other key issues through the CLC in its regular discussions with Government.
Construction Products Association (CPA) weekly notes
Source – CPA
The CPA has set up a dedicated Coronavirus page on our website, including information, resources and advice relevant to our members. Key developments this week, include:
The Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Alok Sharma MP, has written to the construction sector thanking the industry for its work and referencing the Site Operating Procedures published by the CLC.
Version 1 of the CLC’s Site Operating Procedures continue to remain in place. A second version, being developed in line with the latest guidance from Public Health England, will be published shortly and will be made immediately available on the CPA website.
CLC, supported by the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE), has produced (1 Apr 20) a guidance note on Coronavirus Employment Schemes – including a suggested process for managing furlough in relation to the other guidance such as SOP or critical works list. This includes a comprehensive FAQs list on construction specific queries.
CLC has published Advice on Temporary Suspension of Sites - this guidance will help ensure that any closures can be achieved as safely as possible, avoiding potential issues while the site is not active.
The European construction sector calls for urgent measures to protect workers’ health, support economic activity and accelerate the recover. Read the full declaration.
The CPA’s economics team’s COVID-19 Market Impact Report continues to be updated regularly. If you would like to be added to a mailing list to receive it directly each time it is updated, then please contact Noble Francis.
The daily COVID-19 Construction Industry Briefings produced in collaboration between the CPA, the Association for Consultancy & Engineering, Build UK, Chartered Institute of Building, CITB, Civil Engineering Contractors Association, Federation of Master Builders, and Institution of Civil Engineers, continues to be published daily across the main trade press.
The CPA, through the CLC, continues to push government for greater clarity on what constitutes critical work and is collating information on operations amongst its membership. We welcome member input and suggestions. We will continue to provide the latest and most pertinent updates and guidance on COVID-19 via our website and weekly notes.
We have published a video that shows employers how to use pause & stop in the apprenticeship service to record a break in learning.
This video takes employers through the new measures relating to breaks in learning that were recently detailed in the apprenticeship programme response to COVID-19 document. We also describe why they might want to pause or stop an apprentice record in the apprenticeship service, and how to do it.
We also explain the steps that training providers have to take to record apprentice “breaks in learning” through the Individualised Learner Record, or ILR
With Public Health England (PHE) guidelines being updated regularly, we have been working hard to ensure that the Site Operating Procedures published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) are aligned, whilst also protecting the construction workforce and providing the clarity that industry has been calling for.
Unfortunately, the updated version issued yesterday resulted in more confusion than clarity. Whilst we review the developing PHE guidelines, we can confirm thatversion 1 of theStandard Operating Procedureremains in place. We are extremely sorry for any disruption caused; like many of you we are doing our best to keep construction operational whilst protecting the health of our people during these difficult times.
Build UK continues to support the CLC and, by working collaboratively across the industry, we have gained strong Ministerial support. This resulted in a conference call yesterday afternoon with Nadhim Zahawi, Minister for Business and Industry with responsibility for Construction, and Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State at the Department for Transport with responsibility for HS2 and the Northern Powerhouse Rail, where they heard from industry representatives, including Suzannah Nichol, Build UK Chief Executive, and Leo Quinn, Chief Executive of Contractor member Balfour Beatty, on the issues affecting the whole supply chain.
The Ministers reaffirmed that construction is a cornerstone of the economy and the vital work it is performing now, and in the future, will be crucial to the economy’s recovery.
We know things are tough for you right now, which is why mental health is crucial in our industry at this time. Today my update on supporting you during the COVID-19 crisis is focused on wellbeing and providing support for the NHS.
To see the support packages CITB has already introduced for employers please visit our COVID-19 update page.
Wellbeing
CITB is funding the training of mental health first aid instructors for many in the industry. Instructors have come from employers, federations and clients. The training is provided by Mental Health First Aid England and the project has been managed on behalf of industry by the Lighthouse Club.
This is a charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of construction workers and their families. The charity’s Construction Industry Helpline is needed now more than ever, with a recent increase in calls of at least 25%, while there’s also a helpline app you can download here.
Due to the current crisis, the charity is unable to go ahead with many national and regional events that provide other income. If you’d like to make a donation, you can do so here, with more information on the current crisis appeal here.
Support for the NHS
Construction is under extreme pressure right now, and I know you’re doing all you can to stay afloat. The NHS also needs our sector’s help. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) in England; Industry Wales; and the Scottish Government are asking employers to provide resources, wherever possible, including:
PPE such as masks, gowns, and sanitiser
Accommodation
Transport and logistics for moving goods or people
Manufacturing equipment
Warehouse or office space for medical use or storage
Expert advice or consultancy in IT, manufacturing, construction, project management, procurement, or engineering.
CITB will be offering support in the form of PPE from our National Construction Colleges and potentially accommodation at Bircham Newton. If you would like to find out if or how you can help the NHS, please go to this page on the Government website and see also the National Business Response Network.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click hereto view it.
To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government pleaseclick here.
There has been significant feedback on the updated Site Operating Procedures - Version 2, published by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) this morning.
Whilst the feedback is reviewed the CLC has re-issued Version 1, which is the document the industry should be complying with.
There remains some confusion regarding whether construction and flooring contractors should remain at work. The CFA support the basic principle that where it remains safe (following CLC Safe Operating Procedures) our sector can still operate. If it is not safe and all guidance including social distancing measures cannot be observed, stay at home. Some of our sector are working on critical projects including NHS facilities and for all these circumstances CLC have provided a template letter (for you to modify) for workers to carry should they be challenged. The CFA version is here and also available as a Word document in the Members Area of the website.
CLC have released a briefing paper, endorsed by government officials and authored by the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE), on “Coronavirus Employment Schemes” – including a suggested process for managing furlough in relation to the other guidance such as SOP or critical works list. This includes a comprehensive FAQs list on construction specific queries.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) have been designated as the lead organisation to advise Government on behalf of construction during the Covid-19 epidemic. The CFA work with the CLC through Build UK and the CPA. CLC have written a letter to the PM to lobby on behalf of industry for further support in some key areas.
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has written to the Prime Minister thanking him for the Government’s support to date and setting out a range of further measures that would help to support the construction sector at this time. These include suspending PAYE and CIS tax due in April and May, deferring or cancelling the Apprenticeship Levy, releasing retention monies held by the public sector, and extending business continuity grants.
In his open letter to the UK construction sector earlier this week, Alok Sharma, the Secretary of State for Business Energy & Industrial Strategy, confirmed that the Site Operating Procedures published by the CLC are aligned with Public Health England (PHE) guidance and required to be implemented in the workplace.
Clarification that, where it is not possible or safe for workers to distance themselves from each other by 2 metres, work should not be carried out.
The request from Transport for London (TfL) to avoid using the tube network during peak times.
Updates from PHE to reference:
1. Those living with someone who has shown signs of COVID‐19 infection
2. Those living with someone who is shielding
3. 60%+ alcohol‐based hand sanitiser
4. Keeping groups of workers together to minimise transfer of infection across the workforce.
The need to monitor implementation of the procedures.
Today’s update on CITB’s work to support the construction industry during the COVID-19 crisis focusses on the launch of our newly expanded Skills and Training Fund which, in addition to the support for micro and small companies includes a new fund for Medium sized employers, and our forthcoming Leadership and Management Development Fund for larger businesses.
To see the support packages CITB has already introduced for employers please visit our COVID-19 update page.
Skills and Training Fund
Our new Skills and Training Fund has been refreshed and now encompasses two strands supporting; micro and small companies (up to 100 employees), medium sized businesses (up to 250 employees) to become a wider offer for employers. CITB has adapted to the COVID-19 situation by amending the scope of activity that will be supported offering more flexibility on what businesses can apply for.
The fund comprises of two streams:
• A Skills and Training Fund for Micro and Small Businesses where businesses can apply for a maximum of £10,000 (full details and how to apply here) depending on the size of the employer
• A Skills and Training fund for Medium sized businesses where employers with up to 250 employees are eligible to receive up to £25,000 (full details and how to apply here).
Based on employer need the fund will allow businesses to define then address their particular challenges. The focus has broadened from productivity and innovation, to helping employers with business sustainability and skill retention – key concerns for the construction industry in the extraordinary circumstances we find ourselves in at the moment.
Thanks to feedback from our customers the stream for medium sized businesses includes greater flexibility on funding rules to ensure it addresses employers’ immediate needs. I urge interested employers to contact their local CITB Advisor to talk about how they can make this funding opportunity work for them.
The attached video provides further information on the funds. The news story on the launch can be read here.
Leadership and Management Development Fund
Employers of all sizes need support which is why our fund for large companies will be launched on April 14. Its focus will be on retention of critical skills and investment in leadership and management development and training. More details will follow shortly.
CITB's COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Pleaseclick hereto view it.
CPA - UK Economic and Construction Impacts from COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
The Construction Products Association represents the UK's manufacturers and distributors of construction products and materials.
The CPA has been asked by a number of government departments, members, industry colleagues and media about the impact of the Coronavirus on our industry. The CPA’s economics team is assessing the key issues for the UK economy and construction and a ‘live’ briefing paper is available to all CFA members through the members area of the CFA website.
This document gives valuable insight into the current understanding of the UK economy and the impact to both the Economy as a whole and specifically the construction industry.
An example of just some of the research being completed by CPA can be seen below.
"Construction
There is rising concern regarding workers on sites. The Construction Leadership Council has Site Operating Procedures but little evidence this is being adhered to, particularly on large sites. A lack of
social distancing and other safety measures may hasten government to severely restrict on site activity.
Following the social distancing restrictions from midnight 23 March, there remains confusion in theindustry as to what activity may occur. The Scottish First Minister stated on 23 March that ‘building sites should close’ and firms report that construction activity has slowed considerably in Scotland already The Mayor of London stated on 24 March that TfL and Crossrail have stopped construction activity except for basic maintenance and repairs. He also stated new work should not occur given that a significant proportion of workers will be travelling to work on crowded public transport. However, both Michael Gove and Robert Jenrick, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, have publicly stated that construction on site should continue ‘where it is safe to do so’.
Many house builders closed on 24 March. At this point Persimmon, Bellway, Taylor Wimpey, BDW (Barratt), Cala, Bovis and now Redrow and MJ Gleeson have closed sites or are preparing their sites to be closed. Persimmon stated it is commencing an orderly shutdown of its sites with only essential works taking place. Berkeley stated on 27 March that some sites remain open whilst other sites will be closing due to ‘increasingly considerable challenges in maintaining the delivery of materials to site’. Crest Nicholson have stated at present that sites remain open whilst sales suites and show homes have closed"
Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, has written an open letter to everyone working in the UK construction sector, confirming that construction and its supply chain is delivering for the nation and should continue to operate. Paying tribute to all those working in the industry, it highlights that construction is fulfilling a vital role in the response to Coronavirus by supporting the UK economy.
The Construction Minister, Nadhim Zahawi, has specifically identified construction as an example of work that should continue during the coronavirus pandemic, stating in The Telegraph on Sunday: “There will always be some work that cannot be done from home, whether it is construction or packing boxes in an Amazon warehouse ‐ but we still need houses built and for deliveries to be made”. Government policy remains that construction sites should stay open if work can be undertaken in compliance with the Site Operating Procedures.
Companies across the sector are continuously making and reviewing decisions on whether to keep sites open based on their ability to implement the Site Operating Procedures. Build UK members have confirmed that projects in London continue to be particularly severely restricted as a result. A number of our key Client members confirmed on a call yesterday that they are working collaboratively with their supply chains to find a way through the current situation on each project, which includes extensions of time and LAD holidays.
For practical advice on a range of contractual issues, Build UK has worked with Wedlake Bell LLP to produce comprehensive guidance for all parties in the supply chain.
Build UK Contractor members have been clear that no‐one should be required to travel to, or work on, their sites if the PHE guidance on social distancing cannot be met. Where we receive evidence that this is not the case on particular projects, we are providing feedback to the company concerned.
The pace of change last week was relentless but by the end we had some much needed detail on the financial support offered by Government, including furloughed workers.
Over the weekend, Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, was questioned on the issue of individuals going to work and not feeling safe to do so. He was very clear that, where work cannot be undertaken from home, people should go to work and employers must follow Public Health England (PHE) guidance. Build UK on behalf of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has developed Site Operating Procedures specifically for construction sites to ensure they are compliant.
We are receiving positive feedback on sites moving to 24 hour shifts, revising programmes to minimise trades working alongside each other, and reconfiguring welfare areas to protect the workforce. However, Build UK Contractor members have been clear that no-one should be required to travel or work if the PHE guidance on social distancing cannot be met.
London remains a real challenge and we are specifically requesting that sites change their working hours to avoid putting pressure on public transport, particularly the tube network, during the peak hours of 05:45 ‐ 7:30 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30. If construction workers travel later in the morning and evening, they can protect themselves, critical workers and transport staff.
This is the latest update on CITB’s work to support the construction industry during the COVID-19 crisis. Today there are four key messages:
Take-Up of Advanced Apprenticeship Grants
On Tuesday CITB announced they would pay apprenticeship attendance grants for second and third year apprentices in advance (full story here). We encourage anyone who is eligible to receive this grant to fill in the form here.
CITB Levy Suspension
CITB’s board approved suspending the issue of its levy bills, due for payment in 2020, for an initial period of three months (full story here) a decision that will impact thousands of employers.
Please see the video explaining CITB’s suspension of levy collection below:
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme
Many construction workers are self-employed so the Chancellor’s announcement of a new self-employment support scheme covering 80 per cent of average profit was welcome. The government will pay up to £2,500 per month for those with average profit of £50,000 or less over the last three years. For more information please click here.
CLC Site Operating Procedures
To implement the Government’s social distancing recommendation the Construction Leadership Council has published Site Operating Procedures. You can read them here.
Specific Guidance from Wedlake Bell about Contractual Issues arising from Coronavirus
Source – Build UK
Build UK has worked with Wedlake Bell to produce comprehensive guidance for all parties in the supply chain on contractual issues caused by coronavirus. Under the circumstances, performance of current contracts is likely to become increasingly difficult ‐ there may be delays, labour and materials shortages, and increasing costs ‐ and the guidance offers practical advice on what to do in each situation.
I am writing this towards the end of the second week that has rocked our world with many of the things we have taken for granted being turned upside down.
“Recent” is very much a relative term currently, which can only be counted in hours rather than days. But the “recent” lack of clarity for the construction industry has been unfortunate. In my opinion, there has been a basic lack of understanding of what can practically be achieved on sites in terms of social distancing. Much of the contract flooring industry has led the way in keeping their employees safe and I commend you for this.
Yesterday evening (26th March) the Government added to the Furlough payment for employed workers, with equal support for the self-employed, which of course makes up so much of the workforce in our supply chain. I am hoping that this removes any further financial barriers that might otherwise have stopped those that need to be at home, to stay safe.
The CFA has been continuously working to keep you informed of the latest help available to our members. If you haven’t already done so, I would strongly recommend you have a look at the CFA’s blog to keep up to date on relevant industry news and support www.cfa.org.uk/blog. CEO Richard Catt and the team are designing other resources to help you through this time and they will be launched through the blog and our other normal communication channels. It is at times like these, however uncertain, that the value of CFA membership truly comes into real focus, ensuring you have all the necessary business helplines and quick access to support that might just make the difference.
We have just launched a new template, our “Business Suspension Plan”. This has been designed to help you either scale back your business or stop working for a short period of time. The document is outlined on the blog and is available through the members area of the CFA website, where there are many other useful templates such as a Furlough letter to employees.
We are also a community that can work together through these difficult times. Whilst nobody knows the timescale of this pandemic, it is good to aim to key events in the future to look to regroup and refocus. Such an event is the CFA Autumn Ball, that we are still optimistically scheduling for the 10 Oct 2020, that could become a focal point for the industry and the CFA. A time where we can all hopefully re-establish those vital relationship that make our industry special.
Training and excellence have been the theme of my Presidency and I look forward to the day when we will be able to return with purpose and new perspective to such matters. Communication is of course paramount now, so do stay in touch and ensure that now, more than ever, you receive benefit and value from your membership. There is so much on offer, you only have to ask.
Richard can be contacted via richard@cfa.org.uk and if you have any messages for me, he will pass them on.
From all at the CFA, above all else stay safe and well.
Garry
Garry Bateman
Head of Technical Sales and Support - Forbo Flooring UK Ltd
CFA President
Construction Products Association (CPA) - Weekly Notes
Source - CPA
The CPA has set up a dedicated Coronavirus page on our website, including information, resources and advice relevant to our members. This includes:
The CPA’s economics team’s COVID-19 Market Impact Report available for CPA members only. This will be updated regularly. If you would like to be added to a mailing list to receive it directly each time it is updated then please contact Noble Francis.
Following the publication of industry‐agreed Site Operating Procedures, specifically in response to the risks created by Coronavirus, Build UK Contractor members are assessing their activities and preparing to continue or resume work on sites where the procedures can be complied with. Build UK has issued this statement with the support of Contractor members.
We recognise that transport to and from sites remains a significant challenge and Transport for London (TfL) is urging people to avoid travelling during the busiest times which are 05:45 ‐ 7:30 and 16:00 ‐ 17:30.
The Chancellor has announced that there will be income support measures for self‐employed workers at the same level as that offered to employees. Self‐employed workers can receive a taxable grant worth 80% of their average monthly trading profit over the last three years up to £2,500 per month for at least three months. HMRC will contact individuals once the scheme is operational.
More details are now available on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) will publish guidance for construction workers shortly.
CITB’s board met on Wednsday March 25 and gave final approval to suspend the issue of its levy bills, due for payment in 2020, for an initial period of three months. The bills will subsequently be issued for the full year. The delay will provide immediate financial relief to construction employers during the coronavirus crisis. In normal times CITB assesses and sends out levy bills each April in accordance with legal requirements. CITB levy bills are usually due for payment in May, but CITB will not seek collection on the suspended bills until August, or later if possible.
Sarah Beale, CITB chief executive, said, “Everyone in construction is facing extreme pressure at the moment and it’s right that we provide the financial relief we can to protect employers and ensure that the industry is as prepared as possible for the economic recovery that will come when the crisis lifts.”
“CITB is reviewing all of its work to respond to the rapidly changing skills needs of industry. We are continuing to re-evaluate our services, funding and grants to adapt them to meet industry’s changing priority needs.”
CITB will provide employers with further detail as soon as it can. We understood the need to provide early information, even before all details are available.
The government has today (26 March 2020) made new public health regulations strengthening police enforcement powers in England, to reduce the spread of coronavirus, protect the NHS and save lives.
To ensure people stay at home and avoid non-essential travel, from today, if members of the public do not comply the police may:
instruct them to go home, leave an area or disperse
ensure parents are taking necessary steps to stop their children breaking these rules
issue a fixed penalty notice of £60, which will be lowered to £30 if paid within 14 days
issue a fixed penalty notice of £120 for second time offenders, doubling on each further repeat offence
Individuals who do not pay a fixed penalty notice under the regulations could be taken to court, with magistrates able to impose unlimited fines.
If an individual continues to refuse to comply, they will be acting unlawfully, and the police may arrest them where deemed proportionate and necessary.
However, in the first instance the police will always apply their common sense and discretion.
The CFA has been contacted by a number of contractor members asking for advice, information and guidance on the most effective way to temporarily close business operations due to the effects of Coronavirus COVID-19.
The CFA has therefore developed a Business Suspension Plan for members to use that can be accessed here and is also available from the members area of the website.
This is an extensive list of information flooring contractors may need to ensure they have done all they can to protect their business and staff whilst the pause in trading is in effect.
The government has insisted it has no plans to close construction sites, amid ongoing calls from politicians and many members of the public for them to be closed.
An email, seen by Construction News, from a senior prime ministerial adviser said the government is not closing construction sites nor is it encouraging them to. Number 10 said that, although the situation is developing, there are no plans to force sites to halt works.
CN understands the government will soon publish further guidance explaining to companies how they can operate sites where the two-metre distancing may not be possible, an issue put forward by a number of industry figures.
Federation of Master Builders chief executive Brian Berry said today: “Most FMB members have already taken the lead and ceased the majority of their work. It is almost impossible to follow Public Health England’s social distancing advice on many sites, and it would therefore be safer to close them.”
Jeremy Corbyn yesterday attacked Boris Johnson during Prime Minister's Questions for failing to announce any restrictions to construction work since he ordered a national lockdown. The Labour leader questioned why non-essential construction work was continuing in the UK. Nicola Sturgeon and Sadiq Khan have also called for sites to close.
Many companies and projects, including HS2 and Crossrail, have halted most or all of their works, but others including Balfour Beatty, Willmott Dixon and Sisk are continuing operations on sites and say they are able to comply with the Construction Leadership Council’s new procedures for worker safety.
Contractors revealed to CN yesterday how they have faced a public backlash as sites continue to operate following the national lockdown. Construction workers are being heckled from the street and are receiving abuse on social media following national media coverage of active projects.
Italy has banned many types of construction activity under new, more stringent measures introduced since the weekend.
A UK Government spokesperson said: "Certain jobs require people to travel to their place of work – for instance if they operate machinery, work in construction or manufacturing, or are delivering front line services.
"If you cannot work from home then you can travel to work, provided you are well and neither you nor any of your household are self-isolating. This is consistent with advice from the chief medical officer."
Support for businesses through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
Source – Gov UK
Under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, all UK employers with a PAYE scheme will be able to access support to continue paying part of their employees’ salary for those that would otherwise have been laid off during this crisis.
This applies to employees who have been asked to stop working, but who are being kept on the pay roll, otherwise described as ‘furloughed workers’. HMRC will reimburse 80% of their wages, up to £2,500 per month. This is to safeguard workers from being made redundant.
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will cover the cost of wages backdated to 1 March and is initially open for 3 months, but will be extended if necessary. HMRC will set out more details shortly.
The Government has provided updated guidance on going to work in section 4 of its guidance on Staying at home and away from others (social distancing), and the Prime Minister confirmed yesterday that the modelling of the coronavirus response is based on the fact that a lot of people would still need to go to work.
From conversations with many of our members over the last two days, we know the impact of the pandemic is significant across every sector, with businesses of all sizes concerned about cashflow, looking after their workforce, and the contractual implications of sites closing and stopping work.
Build UK has worked with Wedlake Bell to produce comprehensive guidance for all parties in the supply chain on contractual issues caused by coronavirus. Under the circumstances, performance of current contracts is likely to become increasingly difficult ‐ there may be delays, labour and materials shortages, and increasing costs ‐ and the guidance offers practical advice on what to do in each situation.
COVID-19 is presenting big challenges for the construction employers CITB supports. CITB are monitoring the rapidly changing situation daily and will do all they can to lead and support, as well as signpost to better placed help. Their key messages currently cover apprenticeships, the CITB Levy, Site Safety Plus, an employer support database and a monthly construction competition for school children.
Apprenticeships
CITB is helping SME’s with funding apprenticeships by bringing forward payment of some apprenticeship grants – full details to be announced soon. We urge you to consult CITB before dismissal of any apprentices - contact employer_apprenticeshipqueries@citb.co.uk.
Apprenticeship Officer’s will continue to be apprentice’s point of contact – refer to the letter that CITB sent to apprentices on 19 March advising that Apprenticeship Officer’s will be in touch via phone or Skype.
CITB is working with ESFA to discuss funding rules around breaks in learning for apprentices. They are also working with IfATE to examine the impact Apprenticeships Frameworks switch off on July 31 will have – updates to follow.
The CITB Levy
This is a complex subject and a top priority – CITB are in board meetings this week regarding this.
Site Safety Plus
CITB are working with Site Safety Plus training providers to support delegates impacted by COVID-19 and meeting many employers’ federations’ standards for working on site.
They are supportive of calls for employers to provide flexibility on recently expired cards and SSP Courses (eg SSSTS / SMSTS). More info here
New Employer Support Databases
Due within the next week – CITB are compiling a database of useful information / links designed to help employers during this crisis
Monthly Construction Competition for School Children
There are plans for an Apr – Jun Buildathon using Minecraft, targeted at primary and secondary schools. The competition will provide an opportunity for parents and children to learn about the range of careers available in the construction industry while schools are closed. More information will be available shortly.
We know the industry is looking for clarity on whether construction sites should continue to operate. Whilst the Government is increasing its calls for everyone to stay at home and avoid all non‐essential travel, it is also stating that construction sites can continue to operate. This has left the construction sector caught between the Government’s advice and the overwhelming need to protect its workforce.
On a call with the majority of our Contractor members yesterday, Build UK discussed a collective decision for sites to shut. Following that call, a number of members went back to their Boards and have now confirmed that they are closing their sites.
Build UK is not a regulatory or enforcement body and neither is the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). We have done our utmost to support members in implementing the Government’s advice on social distancing where they have chosen to keep their sites open. Alongside the CLC, we have also called strongly for Government support for the whole workforce that will be affected by the closure of construction sites.
We firmly believe that the industry needs to pull together at this time; we can do nothing about the situation we find ourselves in, but we can do something about how we respond and that will continue to be our focus over the coming days.
There is clearly much debate at the moment regarding construction and whether it is safe to work. In conjunction with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) Build UK have issued guidance (Site Operating Procedures available via their website) on how to keep safe on site. If this guidance cannot be followed, then CFA would suggest that the site should not remain open. We are aware that a number of members have already ceased activity.
Last week felt like one of the longest of my career. I don’t think it is over dramatic to say that it feels like a week that will probably change the rest of my working life, as well as many of those within our membership and the wider sector. Two things stand out:
First - The pace of change
Last Monday, the 16th March, I drove to work very conscious of the increasing concerns around Covid-19. I left the office on the previous Friday wondering if I would be travelling to Scotland the following week. The news came quicker than I expected and by the end of Monday, the Government had recommended against all unnecessary travel and meetings. Needless to say, my trip was cancelled and by Friday all the schools, pubs, restaurants and cafes were being told to close. As the song goes, “what a difference a day makes, 24 little hours”.
Second - The realisation we have little control (in a business sense)
Before anyone had come to terms with the last Government announcement, the next had been made. Each one left you rocking with its scale. By Thursday 19th March I was hoping that Boris would be able to slow down, and for that day it felt like he did, but it picked up again on Friday. Each time, all that we could do was react to the things that were announced, exploring what it meant for our members and looking for alternatives to continue helping our sector to keep calm and carry on. But it was difficult. Unlike a recession or anything else we have faced, this is not something where you can easily identify links to business matters that in turn lend themselves to normal solutions. Whilst some members continue to work, others have already had work suspended or delayed indefinitely, meaning that they have been faced with stark choices about employees and calculating how long they can last. The restrictions on movement deepen and with that our ability to function on every level.
One of the most important developments has been financial support for those employed but laid off. But as I write, that still leaves an enormous void for those in our industry who are self-employed.
The CFA's Response
As well as re-organising our own team and immediately starting home working plans, we also began to put together as many resources as we could to help our members navigate these difficult times. These have included:
A clear stream of targeted information selected from trusted sources
Templates such as a site and business continuity plan
This blog, which can be accessed from the home page of the CFA website, with daily news and updates
A reminder to members of key helplines to assist them with specific problems:
- Employment
- Health and Safety
- Contractual and legal
A daily update of Government guidance specific to construction from Build UK, hosted on this blog
Access to live economic and supply chain information though the Construction Products Association
Lobbying to Government on issues such as support for those laid off
Specific guidance for individual members who contact us
I am reassured by the Government’s response to date and their guidance in managing, to the best of their ability, the spread of the virus with the crucial goal of trying to ensure that the NHS is not overwhelmed. Of course that is the reason why we are all, generally, responding to those Government measures.
The CFA is the voice of the Contract Flooring Industry and we will continue to work hard on behalf of our members and the sector to get through this crisis. If anyone has anything they would like to discuss with me, or issues they would like to raise, please get in touch using richard@cfa.org.uk.
The message is clear: stay at home, avoid all social interaction, and only travel to work if absolutely necessary. The dilemma facing construction is that a significant number of people cannot work from home, many won’t get paid if they don’t work, and there has been no specific instruction to shut construction sites. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is meeting this morning; however, it is not a regulatory or enforcement body with the power to instruct sites to close.
Build UK is talking to members this morning and will provide an update later today.
Where work has stopped, the Government is supporting business, including committing that public authorities will pay their suppliers. We know that large and small public sector clients are looking at what that means for each of their contracts and how they can work with their supply chains to keep payments on track.
Where work is still continuing, the (CLC) has published Site Operating Procedures, developed by Build UK, to implement the Government’s social distancing requirements and minimise the risk of spread of infection. CLC Co‐Chair Andy Mitchell said:“I would strongly recommend that these procedures are implemented by every operational construction site”.
We are in exceptional circumstances, and are doing our utmost to keep construction sites operational wherever it is practical and safe to do so. Whilst the guidance from Public Health England may change in future, for the time being construction sites of any size that are operating during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic need to ensure they are protecting their workforce and minimising the risk of spread of infection.
To implement the Government’s social distancing recommendation, the Construction Leadership Council has now published Site Operating Procedures. We strongly recommend that these procedures are implemented by every operational construction site, with the aim of us having a standard approach across the industry that all firms and workers can adopt.
It is also vital that the health and safety requirements of any construction activity must not be compromised at this time. If an activity cannot be undertaken safely due to a lack of suitably qualified personnel being available, or social distancing being implemented, it should not take place.
Aimed primarily at manufactures, but available to all, CFA members receive regular economic updates during the year. During these difficult times, CPA have begun to provide an ongoing commentary on the UK economy and supply chain. Their statement is below:
The Construction Products Association (CPA) has recently been asked by a number of government departments, industry colleagues and media about the impact of the Coronavirus on our industry. The CPA’s economics team is assessing the key issues for the UK economy and construction and a ‘live’ briefing paper is available for CPA members. This will be updated regularly and can be accessed on the Economics Publications page after logging in. If you would like to be added to a mailing list to receive it directly each time it is updated then please contact Noble Francis.
CFA members can accesses this information by creating a login on the CPA website
It has been quite a week and amongst all the business issues we are dealing with don't forget to look after yourself, your family and friends, and your workforce. The Prime Minister said last night 'stand by your workers and we will stand by you'. We have yet to see what that means but we know there are a range of measures to support employers being considered.
As well as the impact on us all as individuals, the coronavirus is causing a momentous shock to the global economy far beyond anything we have seen before. The £330 billion of funding announced by the Government is 15% of the UK's annual GDP and double the value of the construction sector, demonstrating the levels to which it is prepared to support business.
Schools and nurseries will close later today and the definition of ‘key workers’ has now been confirmed. It includes those required to keep transport, infrastructure and utility networks operational. The Government will ask workers to only use the limited school places that are available if they actually need them.
The CFA has been contacted by a number of members seeking a template to send to clients to explain the steps and measures that their business is taking to ensure continuity of work on site during the Coronavirus pandemic and how they are managing their own business to cope with new demands.
The CFA has therefore developed a template for members to use that can be accessed here and is also available from the members area of the website.
This is basic information to reassure clients and can be built upon to reflect different circumstances.
The proposed changes to off-payroll working rules will now be introduced on 6 April 2021, and will affect medium and large organisations in the private sector that employ workers through an intermediary.
Build UK has prepared A Practical Guide to IR35 Changes, setting out comprehensive guidance for construction companies who use off-payroll workers, allowing them to determine if they are required to apply the new legalisation and providing clear steps to ensure they remain fully compliant.
Source - Citation (HR and Health & Safety Support)
CFA members have access to a number of helplines that may be of assistance during the COVID-19 period:
Contractual and Legal
Employment Law
Health & Safety
A full list of CFA helplines is available to members through the members area of the CFA website or by contacting the CFA admin office: info@cfa.org.uk
The social and economic challenges stemming from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are becoming increasingly clear. It will mean severe challenges for CITB’s business as usual operations and for the construction employers across England, Scotland and Wales who we work with and support.
We are continually reviewing the external situation and developing plans of action that reflect the reality for our customers, and the latest Government guidance.
This is a complex, rapidly changing situation, which means we must work more closely together than ever before to protect the industry’s skills through this crisis and beyond. Where we can lead, we will, and where we can offer support, or signpost to others better placed to help, we will do that.
We will provide the latest information about all of our operations on this page, and through our social media channels, to ensure that our customers and our partners are kept fully informed. We will provide updates regularly, so please check back to see the latest information, advice and guidance.
Thank you for reading and we wish you well at this incredibly difficult time.
With the Prime Minister confirming that the Government is acting as if on a wartime footing, Build UK's priority is to keep construction sites operational for as long as possible throughout the current crisis. This was the clear message presented to Government in a letter from the industry and in a call with Alok Sharma, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
Recognising that some sectors cannot work from home, the Government has confirmed that it is not necessary to close a business or workplace if someone becomes unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature. The individual should be sent home and advised to follow the Government’s stay at home guidance. The workplace should then be cleaned in accordance with the Government’s decontamination guidance.
The Chancellor has announced a series of measures to support jobs, income and businesses on a scale greater than any previous Government, with the promise of more to come if required.
Government-backed guaranteed loans of £330 billion will be made available to businesses from next week to help them pay rent, salaries and suppliers etc.
To access this funding, larger firms can use a new lending facility from the Bank of England with SMEs able to use the existing business interruption loan scheme which will now offer funding up to £5 million with no interest in the first six months.
The Government recommendation on avoiding non-essential contact, particularly in pubs, clubs and restaurants does trigger insurance cover which includes pandemics.
With specific measures offered to the transport, retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, other industries have been invited to present their need for support and we will continue to do that on behalf of construction.
To support individuals and families, mortgage lenders have agreed to offer a three-month mortgage holiday’ and £1 billion will be made available for vulnerable people.
Alongside this, the Government has announced that changes to IR35 legislation, the off payroll working rules, have been postponed by twelve months to 6 April 2021.
All training at CITB’s National Construction Colleges has been cancelled with immediate effect and the colleges closed. Current and advance-booked courses during the closure can be rescheduled or refunded. All CITB Employer Roadshows have also been cancelled.
CITB has confirmed a range of measures to reassure employers, including:
A comprehensive plan to support apprentices in the industry is being developed, with companies encouraged to continue employing any apprentices in the meantime. Information will be available shortly on the specific support that will be offered by CITB.
Existing bookings of the Health, Safety and Environment Test can be rescheduled or cancelled at no cost.
The introduction of a grace period for the renewal of SMSTS and SSSTS certificates for those unable to complete the refresher course before the expiry of their certificate.
A relaxation of the rules and sanctions that apply to Approved Training Organisations in relation to the uploading of information, course completions and certificates on the Training Directory.
Build UK is working on providing more detailed information on the specific issues raised by it's members and will be adding information to its new coronavirus webpage daily.
Businesses should continue to follow the most up-to-date Government guidance and members can contact Build UK via email with any construction-specific queries. Build UK cannot guarantee to respond to every message; however, if they are aware of sector specific issues they may have the opportunity to address them collectively.
We are very conscious that the worrying situation surrounding Covid-19 is escalating on a daily basis. The guidance we issued in our February email update, when the impact was only just being recognised, remains valid by directing members to the Government’s main websites:
The NHS website goes into greater detail about some of the basic precautions that we would like to reiterate:
wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
always wash your hands when you get home or into work
use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
do not have visitors to your home, including friends and family
Many member companies and others we work with have also taken steps to protect their businesses and workforce by considering activity as either critical or non-critical and avoiding the latter wherever possible. For example, limiting visitors to their offices and external meetings, which has also become Government guidance. We understand that many construction sites currently remain open and as such the day to day activity of fitting contract floors continues. However, there are also reports of growing restrictions and businesses being affected. It is difficult to predict if this will remain the case and there is the possibility that the Government may impose sanctions that effectively place the country in lockdown. The impact on members’ businesses in this scenario would of course be severe and unavoidable.
The CFA has a number of helplines including Health and Safety, Legal and Employment that may be of assistance with regard to specific issues. For members, our full helpline list is available via the members area of the website or you can request a copy via info@cfa.org.uk. In addition, Richard Catt, CFA CEO would be happy to help with any specific questions or concerns - richard@cfa.org.uk
For the CFA, we are also applying the Government guidelines and will not be running face to face meetings or events for the immediate future. We will remain active and are currently looking at alternatives to ensure that the business of the CFA in supporting our members continues while we all navigate this pandemic. Communication is probably more important now than ever and so whilst we will maintain our basic principle of not bombarding our members with unnecessary contact, equally we will endeavour to keep you updated with any critical information. This blog will continue to build and will include basic information and ongoing updates; highlighting support, best practice, news of any guidelines or restrictions implemented by the Government and any wider business help or support that we learn is available.
Please be assured that we continue to work hard on your behalf.
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