Build UK has voted yes to the CITB retaining its levy powers.

However, like other trade bodies who are supporting the skills body, the organisation has set out a number of key areas in which CITB must reform.

Expected reforms include;

Strategic direction

• A clear plan with specific measurable objectives to support employers in recruiting, training and retaining the workforce the industry needs now, and in the future

• A focus on core activities with CITB relinquishing non-core activities to those better placed to deliver them

• A principle of Levy in Skills out with grant funds being used to deliver the skills employers require now and in the future

Governance

• A review of CITB’s governance arrangements enabling industry to contribute to the direction and delivery of the strategic plan including;

- Appropriate industry representation on the CITB Board and Council

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- A rationalisation of the number of CITB Committees and Working Groups and each to have agreed Terms of Reference and objectives

- Measurable outcomes and objectives that are regularly reported against

- Visibility and accountability of CITB board members, trustees and the executive

Funding

• A grant scheme that incentivises and delivers the skills required by employers

• Recognition of high quality and consistent training provision

• A flexible and user-friendly means of claiming grants

• An effective and focused use of funding to support short and long-term skills needs

Communication

• Effective and timely information to employers

• Sufficient consultation with levy payers on both strategy and process related issues

• Transparent and consistent messaging across the industry

In a letter to CITB's Chief Executive Sarah Beale, Build UK Chief Suzannah Nichol said despite a "significant majority" of members supporting the continuation of the Levy, "this support is subject to the implementation of a clear reform programme".

"Build UK and its members recognise that levy payers, employers and the industry have a responsibility to recruit, train and retain the construction workforce and work in partnership with CITB to support the delivery of this fundamental and comprehensive reform programme," Ms Nichol wrote.

"We also believe that we have a role in holding CITB accountable for the delivery of the reform programme.

"I look forward to working closely with you and your team over the coming months and years to ensure that we have a training body fit for purpose and capable of effectively supporting the skills needs of the industry it serves."

(LM/MH)