CLC Industry Card Schemes Recommendation

The CLC has updated its recommendation on Industry Card Schemes following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and the increased focus on competence. The CLC recommendation has been adopted across the industry since it was first published in 2015, with the result that cards carrying the CSCS logo are specified and promoted for those undertaking recognised construction occupations. It confirms that CSCS Smart Check should be used to verify that individuals hold the correct card for their occupation and that cards should not be issued for non‐construction related occupations or those visiting sites.

Following the successful rollout of CSCS Smart Check, which enables cards across all 38 card schemes carrying the CSCS logo to be verified using the same platform, CSCS Go Smart has now been turned off. Cards can no longer be checked using Go Smart and members should ensure they have switched over to CSCS Smart Check as outlined in this CSCS webinar. Build UK’s How to be a Smart Site explains how to check cards using CSCS Smart Check and make sure everyone has the right card for the job they are doing on site.

Government Apprenticeship Support

As part of a package of reforms to support small businesses, the Government has committed £60 million to enable up to 20,000 more apprenticeships, primarily for young people. The Government has confirmed that for new starts from 1 April where employers do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy it will fund all the apprenticeship training costs, up to the funding band maximum, for apprentices aged between 16 and 21 years old when they start their apprenticeship training. CITB has confirmed to Build UK that there will be no changes to its apprenticeship grants.

For employers that pay the Apprenticeship Levy, the Government is also increasing the amount of funding that can be transferred to other employers. Employers can now transfer up to 50% of their funds (previously 25%) to help employers in their supply chain and other SMEs pay for the delivery of apprenticeships. Members that pay the Apprenticeship Levy can use the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer to advertise the opportunity via their apprenticeship service account, with the option to specify that only certain employers in particular sectors or regions can apply in order to target skills shortages within their supply chains. Once advertised, other employers can view the opportunities and submit an application for funding.