CITB Employer Network: Funding For Construction Training

The CITB Employer Network is an initiative aimed at making skills development more affordable and accessible for construction firms registered with CITB. The initiative launched in 2023, and it offers eligible companies the opportunity to receive CITB-funded training support that covers 70% of their training costs.

With only a 30% contribution required from employers, this scheme is transformational for access to training across the industry. On this page, we outline all that you need to know to access this initiative, from eligibility requirements to the benefits of getting on board.

What is the CITB Employer Network?

The CITB Employer Network is a government-supported funding initiative. Its aim is to support the growth and development of construction skills throughout the UK. Through this ground-breaking scheme, CITB will fund 70% of the training costs, meaning companies that are part of the network will be able to access vital training for their employees at a fraction of the full cost.

With this scheme, construction firms will only have to front 30% of the total cost of top-notch training for things like:

Health and safety training.
Technical courses.
Management certifications.

Why Was the CITB Employer Network Introduced?

The development of the CITB Employer Network came about in response to several key issues that are currently facing the construction sector:

Skills Gaps: With an upsurge in demand across the industry, there is a critical need for skilled workers who can help meet project requirements.
Training Costs: Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often find that the cost of training is a significant barrier. The 70% funding initiative aims to make it more accessible.
Industry Resilience: By investing in workforce skills, the initiative helps develop a more resilient and adaptable workforce, ready to face changes and challenges in the industry.

The CITB Employer Network is empowering construction firms and strengthening their workforce without putting strain on their training budgets. Thus, essential skills development becomes more accessible.

Who is Eligible for the CITB Employer Network?

The scheme is available to construction companies that meet the following criteria:

CITB-registered: Companies have to be registered with the CITB to qualify for funding. This includes a wide range of construction-related businesses.
In-scope for CITB levy: Firms that pay the CITB levy and fall within the industry scope will get priority consideration.
Construction SMEs: While all CITB-registered firms can apply, this scheme is particularly beneficial to SMEs that want to grow their workforce skill sets.

If your company is not yet registered with CITB, you can take advantage of this fantastic funding opportunity, and others, by registering here today.

What Are the Benefits of Joining the CITB Employer Network?

Becoming part of the CITB Employer Network opens the door to a range of benefits beyond financial savings:

Significant Cost Reduction: With 70% of the training costs being covered by the CITB, companies only need to fund 30% of the total expense.
Diverse Training Options: Employers can explore a vast selection of courses, including health and safety certifications, NVQs and specialist skills training.
Improved Workforce Skills: Employers will be able to address skills gaps in their workforce, boosting project efficiency and productivity.
Become More Competitive: A well-trained workforce can boost a company’s reputation and competitive edge, particularly for firms that bid for projects that require skill certifications.
Deliver Training Flexibly: Many of the approved training providers offer flexible learning like online courses and blended learning environments.

How to Apply for the CITB Employer Network

If you want to apply for the CITB Employer Network, the process is fairly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide for a smooth application process:

Register With CITB: Confirm that your company is registered with CITB and begin the registration process if necessary.
Sign Up for the Employer Network: Visit the Employer Network sign-up page and begin your application.
Identify Training Needs: Determine the training areas your team needs the most.
Select Approved Training Providers: Choose from the various CITB-approved providers and ensure the training offered meets your specific goals.
Receive Your Funding Support: Once approved, CITB funding will cover 70% of the training costs for eligible employees.

The process is extremely simple and straightforward. We can offer free help and advice about CITB funding so please feel free to get in touch for a chat.

Why Join the CITB Employer Network Now?

By joining the CITB Employer Network, companies can access the training their workforce needs with the benefit of substantial funding support. Given the current challenges the construction industry is facing, like skills shortages and regulatory demand, this network is a practical and cost-effective solution. It could be key to maintaining and developing a capable workforce.

CITB Employer Network FAQs

Can All Construction Firms Apply for CITB Employer Network Funding?

Yes, the scheme is available to all CITB-registered firms. However, companies that are in-scope for the CITB levy – particularly SMEs – will get priority.

What Types of Training are Covered by This Funding?

A wide range of courses are available. They include:

Health and safety training.
Technical skills development.
Management qualifications like NVQs.

This network is intended to support skills development in both operation and managerial areas.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Funding Approval?

The approval process is not the same for all applicants. Applications are typically reviewed within a few weeks. Make sure you complete all the necessary documentation carefully to avoid delays.

Is There a Cap on the Amount of Funding Available?

There is no specific cap per organisation, but the CITB encourages employers to make the most of the available resources within reasonable and operational training requirements.

Are There Restrictions on the Training Providers Available?

Companies can only choose from CITB-approved training providers. This way, it is guaranteed that the courses will meet industry standards and be eligible for funding support.

Why choose PIP Services for your construction training?

We’re an accredited CITB training provider as well as a ProQual approved NVQ centre.

We specialise in delivering CITB SEATS courses as well as a wide range of other CITB training. We also offer construction related NVQs from Level 1 to Level 7, covering trades such as bricklaying, plastering and tiling all the way up to senior management qualification such as the Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management.

Since launching in 2005 we have rapidly progressed with thousands of clients coming through our training centre in the heart of Dagenham each year, as well as providing online options where available. We have helped countless people advance their career in construction and hope to do the same for you.

If you would like to speak to us about CITB funding for your training through the CITB Employer Network, please get in touch below.

If you’d like to learn more about the construction courses we offer, please click on a relevant course below.

CITB Courses

Construction NVQs

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