20th January 2026
CITB Funding Updates for 2026: What Employers and Training Partners Should Know
7th January 2026
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has confirmed a significant update to its grant and funding arrangements, set to take effect from 8 January 2026. These changes will influence how employers plan and access support for workforce development, particularly around safety and compliance training.
With the landscape shifting, providers like Pragmatic Consulting are working with employers to help them understand the impact of these changes and prepare effectively for 2026 and beyond.
Why the Funding Changes Are Happening
Since 2021, CITB has expanded its reach, supporting a broader range of employers without increasing Levy rates. While this has helped more companies access training, the result is growing demand for support that now outpaces available funds. To ensure long-term financial sustainability, CITB is prioritising funding towards areas where it can deliver the greatest industry impact.
Key Changes That Employers Should Plan For
One of the most notable updates is the shift in how short course training will be supported. From January, only Plant Operations, Scaffolding and selected specialist courses will receive grant support through the main Grants Scheme. Other short courses will transition to funding via Employer Networks (EN).
Employers should note that bookings made before 8 December 2025 and completed between 8 January and 31 March 2026 will still qualify for current grant rates if evidence of the original booking is provided.
CITB is also making changes to qualification grants. Attendance grants for long courses will be removed, while achievement grants of £600 will remain in place. Support for Level 7 qualifications will be discontinued, though Level 7 apprenticeships and Scottish advanced craft qualifications remain unaffected.
How Pragmatic Consulting Can Help
For organisations navigating these updates, planning early is key. Pragmatic Consulting specialises in delivering CITB Site Safety Plus training, including core courses such as SMSTS, SSSTS and other accredited health and safety programmes. As training providers, we support employers in identifying relevant courses, booking with confidence and ensuring teams remain compliant under the new framework.
Preparing for the Future
With the new funding structure due in January, employers are encouraged to:
- Review their current and future training needs
- Contact training providers early to secure bookings
- Document all training evidence for grant eligibility
- Work with advisors to explore EN funding options
While the changes present challenges, they also offer an opportunity for organisations to take a strategic approach to workforce training. With recognised CITB qualifications and a trusted training partner, employers can continue to develop a competent, confident and compliant workforce.
