CITB has today announced new changes to its Grants Scheme in a bid to incentivise the industry to take advantage of the funding available that can help them train.
The improvements, which will benefit all grant claiming employers, come following a difficult year for the sector, which has seen the number of companies claiming grant funding for training fall by 62% since 2008. The changes will make a big difference to businesses across the sector, from large, multi-national organisations to small and micro employers.
Chris Jones, Chairman of the Grant Scheme Working Party, said “CITB works hard in partnership with the construction industry to provide financial support for employers of all sizes towards the training and qualification of their workforce.
“We understand how crucial this support is for all employers in these difficult times. So I am pleased that the new Grants Scheme contains some excellent news for employers, especially as we have been able to maintain the attendance grant at the enhanced rate of £50.
The following changes will be made to the 2013/2014 Grants Scheme:
- The continuation of the £50 per day for Training Plans and Short Duration
- Reduction of the Short Duration training period from the current 1 day to ½ day to allow small and micro employers greater access to the Grants Scheme support.
- All Technical and Professional attendance grants will be paid at £50 per day, an increase from £30 per day for some courses. The new Construction ILM qualification in Construction Leadership and Management Skills will be eligible for Technical and Professional attendance and achievement grant support.
- The £610 Plant related VQ grant will continue into 2013/2014 to encourage employers to move their operators to the full CPCS Competence Card.
- Supplementary Payment remains at 22% (10% basic plus a temporary increase of 12%).