Construction qualification awarded from outside UK; will those be recognised by CSCS?

Various financial assistance opportunities are accessible to individuals, including both employees and the self-employed, aiming to attain qualifications within the United Kingdom’s construction industry.

Although CSCS does not offer training or financial support, the following outlines some of the available funding options from other sources.

• The CITB levy and grant system: CITB-registered employers have access to grants aimed at facilitating workforce training. If you are an employee, inquire with your employer about their CITB registration and the possibility of claiming a grant for your training. It’s important to highlight that even small employers and self-employed individuals exempt from the levy may have the opportunity to apply for a grant. Meeting CITB’s stipulated requirements and registering your company with CITB are prerequisites for applying.

• Local funding: Local funding opportunities might be accessible to assist with your training requirements. CSCS advises reaching out to training providers in your vicinity to explore available funding options. Additionally, consider checking with Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) in your area, as they may have access to funding. LEPs are collaborative partnerships between local authorities and businesses established to foster economic growth and job creation within the local region.

• Unemployed: Individuals experiencing unemployment should schedule a meeting with their work coach at the nearby job centre. The work coach can provide information on available funding to support the transition back into employment. Those with a continuous period of unemployment lasting three months or more might be eligible for grant funding through the B&CE charitable trust. Eligibility for this funding extends to individuals who can demonstrate a minimum of 12 months of employment as a “tradesperson” in the construction sector at any point in their employment history.