CITB Update

Source – CITB

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.

View CITB’s COVID-19 updates page

View support measures made available by UK Government to businesses and employees