Major Fund Launched To Boost Construction Skills

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13 July 2018

A multi-million pound fund to help tackle the construction skills shortage has been launched.

With 158,000 new construction jobs expected to be created in the UK over the next five years, the £22 million Construction Skills Fund will bring training to construction sites - allowing learners to apply their knowledge in a real-world environment.

The 18-month scheme is funded by the Department for Education and will be administered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

Skills Minister Anne Milton said: "For our economy to thrive we need everyone, regardless of their age or background, to be able to get the training and the skills they need to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead. A career in construction offers the chance for many people to establish and grow their own business.

"On-site training will be hugely beneficial for employers and trainees, as it will help bridge the gap between training and working in the industry, meaning trainees are site-ready sooner."

The fund aims to support:

• 20 on-site training hubs.

• Work experience and placements for people working to join the industry.

• Entry pathways for those currently unemployed.

• Pathways for career switchers.

CITB is now calling on employers, housing associations and other interested bodies such as LEPs and local authorities to submit expressions of interest. These can be from both existing and prospective on-site learning hubs. The funding will only support on-site training provision, thus access to live construction projects is essential to qualify.

Steve Radley, Policy Director at CITB, said: "The Construction Skills Fund is a milestone scheme for the sector and provides a significant investment in skills and training. It will help attract new talent and bridge the gap between training and working in the industry. Having training on or near to major projects will reveal what an exciting sector this can be, while also putting new talent in the shop window."

Picture: On-site training will be hugely beneficial for employers and trainees according to Skills Minister Anne Milton.

Article written by Cathryn Ellis | Published 13 July 2018

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