KNOWLEDGE HUB
CITB Employer Networks
Run by CITB, the Employer Networks simplify the way you access funding for construction training courses, both through providing better information to employers at a local level, and by streamlining the process to lower the need for grant application paperwork.
OVERVIEW
How do the Employer Networks differ from CITB grants?
The CITB Employer Networks are changing the way employers access funding for recognised short courses. Instead of applying for completion grants on courses such as SMSTS and Asbestos Awareness, you now book training via your local engagement advisor, and CITB will cover part of the cost at the time of payment.
CITB grants are still available for Level 2 to 6 NVQs.
CITB EMPLOYER NETWORKS
I’ve never heard of the Employer Networks. Is it too good to be true?
When an organisation comes out with something that streamlines a headache-inducing process as much as the CITB Employer Networks, it can be hard to believe. But if you haven’t heard of this initiative, it’s probably because it was only rolled out across the UK in 2024.
We’ve been working with the EN since the beginning
- At JRS Training, we were lucky enough to be part of the pilot region in Dorset in 2022. The pilot was a roaring success, supporting over 1000 employers to access funding.
- We are therefore well acquainted with the process, and have built strong relationships with engagement advisors across the south.
- Through 2024, CITB began rolling out the Employer Networks scheme countrywide, and there are now over 30 regions across England, Scotland and Wales.
The EN has been designed to fix the issues with other schemes
- Whilst schemes like CITB grants do provide funding, they don’t offer the logistical support that the EN does.
- Through the EN, CITB will book the training on your behalf, and they’ll pay us as your training provider part of the cost of the course up front.
- This means you’ll only need to top up the rest, and you won’t need to complete complex paperwork each time!
CITB Employer Networks
Who can become part of a CITB Employer Network?
As long as you are registered with CITB, up to date with your levy returns, and have an Employer Network in your area, you can access this service. There are no extra costs involved with joining, and you can join even if you’re already part of a local construction training group.
Though we mainly work with ENs in the south of England at JRS Training, we can support companies based nationally to access their local CITB Employer Network.
To find out whether you have an EN in your area, view the full list on CITB’s website or get in touch with us.
CITB Employer Networks
Your next steps
To get the ball rolling, let us know you’re interested in getting involved in your local CITB Employer Network, and we’ll do the rest. We’ll need to know what sort of training you’re looking for, as well as your location or the location of your head office.
The beauty of the ENs is that even if you don’t have a clue what you need or how to get it, both us as a training provider and your CITB engagement advisor are here to support. The world of construction training can be daunting, especially with changing laws and requirements, which is why we’re here to help.
Find out if you’re eligible for a CITB grant payment, plus discover our range of grant-eligible courses including short courses, plant NVQs and construction management NVQs.
Find out if you’re eligible for a CITB grant payment, plus discover our range of grant-eligible courses including short courses, plant NVQs and construction management NVQs.
Browse our full list of courses developed by the CITB to support the construction industry with key skills and knowledge including safety, supervision, and management.