Build UK Update

Source - Build UK

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.