CITB Employer Network
Funding Support for Construction & Health & Safety Courses
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) Employer Network helps levy-registered construction employers access funding support towards eligible short-course training. Through a match-funding approach, CITB will fund 50% of eligible course costs, with employers contributing the remaining balance once training has been agreed.
Health & Safety in construction and associated courses are supported at 30% of the average market rate, with training and funding agreed locally through an Employer Network adviser based on workforce needs and available budget.
This approach reduces costs for employers, simplifies access to funding and supports the development of a skilled, competent construction workforce.
Important updates to CITB’s grants and funding (from 8 January 2026)
CITB has updated how grants and funding are accessed, with Employer Networks now the main route for short-course funding. Some short-course training booked under previous CITB funding arrangements may still be eligible for earlier funding rates.
Short-course training booked before 8 December (with evidence) and delivered after 8 January may be honoured at earlier funding rates, subject to CITB conditions.
For full details, employers should refer to CITB’s official guidance:
What is the CITB Employer Network?
The CITB Employer Network is designed to make it easier for levy-registered construction employers to access training support and match-funded contributions towards eligible short-course training. Working with local or sector-specific employer groups, the network helps ensure that training reflects regional priorities and industry needs.
Employers work with a local Employer Network adviser, who helps identify suitable training, arrange courses and agree funding support. The network manages the organisation and funding process, reducing administrative burden for employers.
Key Objectives:
- Simplified Access to Training and Funding: The Employer Network streamlines the process by coordinating training arrangements and funding support through a single local adviser, removing the need for employers to navigate complex application or claims processes.
- Employer-Led Training Decisions: By bringing together local employers, the Employer Network enables businesses to influence training priorities and inform CITB of current and future skills needs. This helps ensure funding is directed towards training that supports workforce competence, compliance and productivity.
CITB Training Provider Network Approved Member
Essential Site Skills is an approved member of the CITB Training Provider Network. This recognition confirms that we deliver quality assured construction courses and meet the high standards expected across the industry.
As a TPN member we are able to connect directly with employers through CITB Employer Networks and play an active role in supporting workforce development. Membership also provides access to valuable industry insights, quality assurance support and the Construction Training Directory for eligible short courses.
Being part of the Training Provider Network helps us build stronger relationships with employers, contribute to closing national skills gaps and ensure our courses continue to meet the needs of the modern construction sector.
Benefits of Joining the CITB Employer Network:
- Reduced training costs: Employers can access match-funded support towards eligible short-course training, with CITB funding 50% of eligible course costs. Health & Safety in construction and associated courses are supported at 30% of the average market rate, helping to reduce overall training spend.
- Access to a broad range of construction training: Employer Network funding can support a wide range of eligible short courses, including construction skills, technical upskilling and compliance-related training, when agreed with the local Employer Network.
- Reduced administrative burden: The Employer Network manages the organisation of training and funding arrangements through a local adviser, removing the need for complex applications or claims and allowing employers to focus on day-to-day operations.
Eligibility Criteria:
- CITB registration: Employers must be registered with CITB and up to date with levy requirements to access Employer Network funding support
- Employer Network availability: An active Employer Network must be available in the employer’s area or sector. Employer Networks operate across Great Britain, with funding coordinated locally through designated Employer Network advisers.
- Training agreed locally: Eligible training and funding support are agreed with the local Employer Network based on workforce needs and available budget.
How to Apply:
- Verify CITB Registration: Ensure your business is registered with CITB and that all levy payments are current.
- Identify Training Needs: Assess the specific training requirements of your workforce to determine the most beneficial programs.
- Contact Your Local Employer Network: Reach out to the Employer Network in your area to discuss your training needs and initiate the funding process.
Additional Support
At Essential Site Skills, we are committed to assisting construction businesses in maximising the benefits of the CITB Employer Network. Our team can guide you through the application process, help identify appropriate training programs, and ensure you receive the maximum funding available.
Contact Us Today
If you’d like support understanding how the CITB Employer Network works or help identifying suitable training options, please get in touch. Our team can guide you through the Employer Network process and support discussions with your local Employer Network adviser.
Note: This information reflects the current Employer Network funding arrangements. For confirmation of eligibility, funding levels and local availability, employers should refer to the official Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) guidance or speak directly with their local Employer Network adviser.