CITB Employer Networks Completed to Tackle Construction Training

THE ROLL-OUT of Employer Networks nationwide has now been finished by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Employer Networks have been operated as a pilot initiative since 2022. The scheme aims to allow funding decisions to be led by employers. There are now 33 groups across Great Britain.

CITB says they offer bespoke, easy-to-access training and financial support for local employers. Employers are offered a direct channel to communicate their training needs and advise on how funding should be prioritised and allocated in their area. This enables CITB to be more responsive to industry needs locally and nationally.

The hope is by encouraging greater dialogue with employers and removing barriers to engagement with training, the Employer Networks help address the skills gap and build a stronger future for the industry.

Employer Networks

Since the pilot phase in 2022, over 1,000 businesses have accessed training through Employer Networks. CITB reports 86% of employers say that accessing training was simpler through the Networks.

Deb Madden, Executive Director for Nations Engagement, CITB, said: “It’s vital we have a firm grasp of what skills are required and where they’re needed across the country. Employer Networks have proved hugely successful both for employers and CITB and we’ve now rolled out 33 across Great Britain.

“There is an increasing demand for construction work in the UK, and construction employers are clearly aware of the opportunity and the need for training, with 80% of employers indicating they plan to increase their training efforts in the future.”

Tony Hateley, Managing Director, T H Developments UK Ltd, said: “At T H Developments we’ve long recognised the importance of training and upskilling staff. With CITB’s Employer Networks, we have managed to secure training for our staff with a new training provider within a very short lead time. I would recommend any CITB member to contact their adviser as soon as possible and make use of this tremendous tool.”

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