New Guidance on Industry Accreditation CSCS Cards

NEW GUIDANCE on what to do if you have a CSCS card under industry accreditation (or ‘Grandfather Rights’) when they are banned after 31 December 2024 has been issued.

CSCS stopped issuing new cards on the strength of an employer recommendation in 2015. However, over 60,000 existing cards continued to be renewed.

Now, after the end of next year, those industry accreditation (IA) cards will no longer be valid. It means that all CSCS cards will only be issued if the holder has or is in the process of gaining a recognised qualification.

What each individual cardholder needs to do to get a CSCS card depends on their occupation and what qualifications they may already hold.

Retain Your IA CSCS Card

The new guidance on the CSCS website sets out the next steps card holders should take before the deadline depending on the type of card they hold. Often, experienced workers can gain a recognised qualification such as an S/NVQ by submitting a portfolio of work and through online/onsite assessment.

Sean Kearns, Chief Executive at CSCS said: “IA cardholders will not need to attend college as much of the assessment can be deliver remotely. Many IA cardholders will find it a straightforward process to replace their cards, such as moving across to the Academically or Professionally Qualified Persons cards. In addition, those who no longer attend site or are in non-construction related occupations will not require a card.”

The new guidance and support will help cardholders to either retain their card via the S/NVQ or to easily transition to another CSCS card. We would urge employers, trade associations, awarding organisations and training providers to put plans in place to support these workers ahead of the December 2024 withdrawal.”

Those with cards issued under IA by other CSCS Alliance card schemes should contact the appropriate card scheme for further guidance.

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