Ongoing training is essential for staying competitive and compliant in the construction industry. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) provides a comprehensive grants and funding scheme to help employers invest in workforce development, from short courses to apprenticeships and higher qualifications. Here’s how you can access this vital support for your business.
What Are CITB Grants and Who Can Apply?
CITB grants are financial incentives designed to encourage training and upskilling in the construction sector. These grants are available to all CITB-registered employers, regardless of business size or whether you pay the CITB levy, as long as your levy returns are up to date. This means even small businesses exempt from the levy can benefit from funding, provided they are registered with the CITB.
Types of CITB Grants Available
Short Course Grants: For training lasting 3 hours to 29 days, such as health and safety or technical skills courses. Grant values typically range from £60 to £240 per course, depending on the course tier.
Qualification Grants: For achieving recognised qualifications (NVQs, diplomas, etc.), with grants up to £1,500 for management NVQs and £1,250 for supervision NVQs.
Apprenticeship Grants: Support for employers taking on apprentices, with annual attendance and achievement payments.
Into Work Grants: £500 for completion of work experience and an additional £1,000 after three months’ direct employment.
Leadership & Management Training: Large employers can access funding for leadership and management development.
Employer Network Funding: 70% CITB Contribution
A significant funding opportunity for employers is the CITB Employer Network funding. Under this scheme, CITB covers 70% of the training cost while your company pays just 30%.
This funding model is designed to make training even more accessible and affordable, and covers all Roofbase Training Academy courses. By participating in the Employer Network, you can access a wide range of training options at a fraction of the usual cost, making it easier to upskill your workforce and stay ahead in the industry.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be a CITB registered employer.
Your levy returns must be up to date, even if you do not pay the levy due to exemption.
Grants are paid to employers, not individual employees.
The training provider must be a CITB Approved Training Organisation (ATO) for the course to be eligible for funding.
For Employer Network funding, you must participate in the relevant Employer Network scheme, which is open to all CITB-registered employers.
How to Apply for CITB Grants
For Short Courses:
If using a CITB Approved Training Organisation (ATO), provide your CITB registration number and the learner’s details when booking. The training provider will update CITB upon course completion, triggering the automated grant application.
If the provider is not an ATO, you must apply directly via the CITB online portal.
For Qualifications (e.g., NVQs):
Employers must submit the grant application within 52 weeks of achievement, attaching the certificate from the awarding body.
Applications can be made individually or in bulk for multiple learners.
For Apprenticeships:
Apply as soon as the apprentice’s training begins for attendance grants, and upon completion for achievement grants.
For Employer Network Funding:
Enrol in the Employer Network scheme via CITB.
Book your training through Roofbase Training Academy or another approved provider.
Pay 30% of the course cost; CITB will cover the remaining 70% directly.
For Other Grants:
Download and complete the relevant application forms from the CITB website and submit them with supporting documentation.
Payment:
Grants are paid by Bacs transfer, so ensure CITB has your current bank details.
Tips for a Successful Application
Stay Registered and Up to Date: Ensure your business is registered with CITB and all levy returns are submitted, even if you are exempt from payment.
Use Approved Providers: Always check that your training provider is a CITB ATO for the course you wish to claim against.
Keep Records: Maintain accurate records of training completion and qualifications to support your application.
Apply Promptly: Submit applications within the specified time limit (usually within 52 weeks of achievement).
Seek Support: Many training providers, including Roofbase, can guide you through the application process and even submit claims on your behalf for short courses.
Why Access CITB Funding?
CITB grants help construction businesses offset training costs, improve workforce skills, and maintain high industry standards. By making use of available funding, you can upskill your team, boost productivity, and stay ahead in a competitive market.
For more information or support with your CITB grant application, please contact Lesley Hughes Roofbase Training Manager. You can email Lesley at training@roofbase.com, or call Lesley her on 07817 641984.
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