CITB Coronavirus Response Update
Today’s email update includes how you can benefit from the Government’s new Construction Talent 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 here and 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.