The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced updates to its funding arrangements, including changes to Employer Networks and the introduction of a new Large Employer Fund from April 2026.

The changes form part of CITB’s wider effort to simplify the way employers access training support and ensure funding remains sustainable as demand for skills development across the construction industry continues to grow.

Employer Networks remain key route for training support

Employer Networks were introduced by CITB to make it easier for construction employers to access training funding and shape the type of training delivered in their region. They allow businesses to work collaboratively with CITB advisers to identify skills needs and access financial support for training programmes.

Under the revised arrangements introduced in January 2026, Employer Networks will continue to be the main route for funding many training courses. However, CITB’s contribution towards training costs will generally be match-funded up to 50%, with health and safety training typically supported at around 30% of the average market rate.

Employers seeking support for training are encouraged to work closely with their local CITB adviser and Employer Network to plan and secure funding for relevant courses.

New funding route for large employers

CITB has also confirmed that employers with more than 250 employees will move to a dedicated funding route from 1 April 2026. Large employers will no longer access support through Employer Networks and will instead be able to apply through a new Large Employer Fund, designed to better support the scale and complexity of training within larger organisations.

Relevance for specialist safety training

FASET works closely with CITB to support training and competence in the installation of safety netting and temporary edge protection systems across the construction industry.

Many of the specialist training courses delivered by FASET-approved training providers – including safety net rigging and edge protection training – are supported through CITB grants. These grants help employers invest in the skills required to ensure work at height safety systems are installed correctly and safely.

The latest funding updates underline the importance for employers to engage with CITB and Employer Networks when planning training, ensuring that workers continue to access recognised industry training and maintain high safety standards on site.

FASET will continue to work with CITB and industry partners to support competence, training and best practice across the sector.