CITB funds new anti-slavery training programme

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to fund new initiative to eradicate slavery in construction.

A new initiative designed to stamp out modern day slavery in the construction industry has been funded by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

A total of £18,500 in funding from CITB’s Flexible and Structured fund has been won by Willmott Dixon, which will be used to help construction firms and supply chains to identify illegal workers and trafficking activities through a serious “Right to Work” training videos.

According to the Home Office, a total of 53 potential victims of trafficking into construction were referred to the authorities in 2013, with the number expected to be much higher considering the hidden nature of slavery.

Under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, businesses have an obligation to make training about slavery and human trafficking available to staff, and severe penalties are in place for those that do not adhere.

Around 1,000 construction businesses are expected benefit from these videos.

Eleven other projects, based in England and Scotland, have also been awarded over £800,000 from CITB in this latest round of Flexible and Structured funding. Five of the bids were submitted by Federations and the rest by firms, training groups or trade associations.

Kier, in conjunction with Hub South West and leading youth charity, Prince’s Trust, received £43,500 to develop a work experience programme, designed to encourage 15-18 year olds into construction. A series of taster days will be delivered, which offer progression onto pre-employment programmes where students can gain CSCS accreditation and on-site experience. The Prince’s Trust offer ongoing support and mentoring which will help young people into employment, further education or training within the industry.

The North Yorkshire Construction Training Group has been allocated £36,000 to develop a training course designed to help construction firms with fewer than 50 employees boost their business make good decisions. Through workshops and and one-to-one bespoke coaching and support, SMEs should improve business skills with the aim of increasing the long-term growth and financial sustainability.

Geeta Nathan, Head of Economic Analysis at CITB, says: “I’m excited to announce the latest round of industry-led projects that CITB is supporting. The construction industry faces unique challenges and it’s important that we work together to address these issues so that we are well-positioned for the future.

“The threat of human trafficking in construction is real. Firms want to root it out, but don’t always know how. This project will help companies to protect staff, abide by the law and uphold the reputation of the industry. We commend the efforts of Willmott Dixon for initiating this project and are pleased to support them with industry investment.”

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