Developing Competence Frameworks for Installers: A Collaborative Approach to Building Safety and Skills Improvement

Developing Competence Frameworks for Installers: A Collaborative Approach to Building Safety and Skills Improvement

FIS are working in collaboration with CITB on developing competency frameworks for Installers across the Super Sector project.

Competence Frameworks will set out and define the core competence requirements for individuals across the built environment. They are made up of a Route to Competence and a SKEB document (Skills, Knowledge, Experience & Behaviour) and an Implementation Plan.

As the Building Safety Act comes into effect, individuals will be required to prove that they are competent to do the job that they are on-site to do, so it is imperative that we have competence defined for all (in scope) roles.

Whilst the Building Safety Act currently focuses on those working on higher-risk buildings (HRBs), CITB will support WG2 Installer Competence Super Sectors, a subgroup of the Industry Competence Steering Group (ICSG), to consult with industry to develop Competence Frameworks.

Competence Frameworks will help improve competence by providing clarity and consistency across the industry with links to accredited qualifications and approved training, also supporting the strategy for addressing the skills demand.

From standardising competence and identifying the qualification landscape, an implementation plan will be produced which will help address any gaps identified by the consultation process and the defining of the Competence Framework.

Plastering is one the sector areas, where the SKEB document is complete and is now open for online review and feedback until 30th October 2024.

Please see link below which will take you to consultation link:

citb.welcomesyourfeedback.net/s/CFPlast24

If you would like further information of have any questions, please contact Beena

Changes to the Construction Industry Scheme

Changes to the Construction Industry Scheme

Over the last six months, HMRC has made a number of changes to the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), including:

  • Compliance with VAT obligations has been added to the Gross Payment Status compliance test which means if businesses do not comply with their VAT requirements, then HMRC can ultimately remove or refuse Gross Payment Status
  • Most landlord to tenant payments for construction work are no longer within the scope of the CIS
  • There is now a digital form to register as a Subcontractor and make Gross Payment Status applications.

HMRC has produced a video for CIS Subcontractors to help them understand the scheme, including that accurate material costs must be provided when submitting an invoice.

Source: Build UK

Employment Rights Bill Unveiled

Employment Rights Bill Unveiled

The Government has introduced the Employment Rights Bill to Parliament, describing it as the “biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation”. It contains 28 reforms which increase protection for workers, including:

  • ‘Day one’ protections ‐ The existing two‐year qualifying period for protection against unfair dismissal will be removed and workers will be entitled to paternity, parental and bereavement leave from their first day on the job
  • Probation ‐ There will be a new statutory probation period for new hires
  • Flexible working ‐ Flexible working will become the default for all employees, unless an employer can prove it is unreasonable
  • Sick pay ‐ There will be a universal entitlement to Statutory Sick Pay from the first day of illness
  • Pregnancy protections ‐ Women will be protected from dismissal whilst pregnant, on maternity leave and within six months of returning to work
  • Zero‐hour contracts ‐ Workers will have the right to a guaranteed hours contract if they work regular hours over a defined period.

The Government has confirmed that further detail on many of the policies in the Bill will be provided through regulations, and in some cases codes of practice, after the Bill has received Royal Assent. The Government will begin consulting on these reforms in 2025, with the majority expected to come into force from autumn 2026.

Source: Build UK

CPA Autumn Forecast Webinar 2024

CPA Autumn Forecast Webinar 2024

CPA would like to invite you and your respective members to join the their webinar for the Construction Industry Forecasts – Autumn 2024 Edition. The webinar will cover the UK economy this year, the latest construction data, and the new construction forecasts for the key sectors, as well as highlighting key risks to the economy.

Hosted by CPA Economics Director Professor Noble Francis.

The event promises to deliver insightful analysis and valuable perspectives. Whether you’re involved in residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects, this webinar will provide essential information to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Want to attend?

This webinar is accessible to everyone, and you can register by clicking the link provided below.

Celebrating 80 Years of Dedication: Len Bunton’s Legacy in the Construction Industry

Celebrating 80 Years of Dedication: Len Bunton’s Legacy in the Construction Industry

Len Bunton, an unwavering pillar of support for countless FIS members, continues to bolster our contractual endeavors with unyielding dedication. Even as he marks his 80th birthday, his momentum is undiminished.

Let’s hear directly from the man himself:

My lifetime has been spent in the construction industry and I have been extremely fortunate to meet and work with so many brilliant people, whose friendship I have shared.

The commitment to a fairer construction industry continues. Being asked to Chair the Conflict Avoidance Coalition Steering Group has been huge honour, and again working with so many great people, with a shared vision.

The professional institutions deserve great credit for supporting this, but really the RICS support has been unstinting and incredible. Working with construction organisations has also been stimulating, and I particularly mention, the Finishes, and Interiors Sector. The force of nature, in CEO, Iain McIlwee has been an inspiration, as has the backup team of Michelle, Clare, Gregg and Joe.

The Conflict Avoidance Conference in London last week was a great success, and we need to build on that and Conflict Avoidance needs to be the “norm” and not the “exception”.

I have been blessed with so many great friends, with 4 wonderful children [now grown up] with lovely grandchildren and great grandchildren. Most of all an incredible wife Sheila. She has endured my working long hours, travelling away from home many times, but she has been the rock for our family, and my inspiration.

To our many clients, some of over 20 years, thank you for trusting us.

So, to those of you who are thinking – “at last he’s hanging up his foghorn”, rest assured I am not, and as long as I have my health, I will continue to fight for honesty, integrity, respect, and trust in our industry.

Thank you all.

National Construction College (NCC) Interior Systems Installer Provision

National Construction College (NCC) Interior Systems Installer Provision

FIS are working with NCC Bircham Newton to deliver the Interior Systems Installer Apprenticeship – Ceilings pathway, early next year.

Interior System Installer (Ceilings and Partitions) Apprenticeship

The Interior Systems Apprenticeship (Ceilings and Partitions) has been developed by employers and approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IFATE). The Ceiling and Partitions pathway incorporates different ceiling and partition systems within a building.

 Programme outline:

  • Start date: February 2025 – (dates are flexible)
  • 24-month programme
  • 9 x 2-week immersive training blocks delivery by industry experts
  • Workplace coaching sessions every 10 weeks support you and the apprentice to implement their new skills and knowledge
  • 3-month end point assessment window includes a knowledge test and practical observation and questioning

National Construction College are also able to offer:

  • Meet (virtual or face to face) with members to discuss and shape the programme in greater detail
  • Set up a Webinar where NCC can share a virtual tour of Bircham and its facilities and answer any questions
  • Facilitate a site tour of Bircham in person to any members and/or potential apprentices

 If you are interested in taking on apprentices in this subject, or would like to find out more, please get in touch withmarieflinter@thefis.org

Enhancing Safety in Construction: Addressing Moment Connection Design and Reporting Procedures

Enhancing Safety in Construction: Addressing Moment Connection Design and Reporting Procedures

A recent safety report from Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures UK (CROSS) has highlighted a consideration for contractors around the design of moment connections in staircase stringers that have be under designed. Mandatory occurrence reporting procedures that are required under the building safety act in higher risk buildings demand that anyone on site report issues whenever and wherever we see them, and this could be crucial where a specialist sub-contractor has any interfacing works or is responsible for elements that conceal or clad these details.

Ensuring that all parties involved in the construction and design process are aware of their responsibilities is essential for maintaining safety standards. This includes conducting thorough inspections and collaborating closely with design engineers to verify that all moment connections are correctly specified and installed. It also emphasises the importance of continuous training and communication among team members to recognise and address potential risks before they escalate into safety hazards.

Moreover, the report underscores the value of fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, where every worker feels empowered to voice concerns without fear of repercussions. By doing so, the industry can work towards a safer built environment, minimising the likelihood of structural failures and ensuring the well-being of all building occupants.

In light of these findings, contractors and subcontractors should prioritise regular audits of design specifications and site practices, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and adapting to emerging challenges with agility and diligence

Want to see the full report?

See the full report from CROSS UK

Attention CSCS Card Holders: Important Changes Ahead!

Attention CSCS Card Holders: Important Changes Ahead!

Grandfather rights are ending for Blue Gold and Black CSCS Cards

If you hold a CSCS Blue Card card under Grandfather Rights (Industry Accreditation), it’s crucial to pay attention to an important change coming your way. As of 31 December 2024, the Industry Accreditation (IA) will be withdrawn. This means that from 1 January 2025, you will no longer be able to renew your card unless you have a recognised qualification.

But don’t worry! There are quick and easy options available to help you transition smoothly into the new requirements without the need to return to college or deal with exorbitant costs or time constraints.

Why is this happening?

This is linked to competency requirements in the Building Regulations and Construction Leadership Council recommendations which state that all construction industry card schemes must operate with nationally recognised qualifications in place for all occupations.

Tailored guidance can also be found at CSCS Guidance which is designed to help cardholders replace their IA cards, depending on their occupations and qualifications.

What do we need to do?

Those requiring a qualification do not need to attend college and CITB grants are available to support CITB-registered employers achieve recognised qualifications.

There are various ways in which individuals who hold a blue, gold or black industry accreditation card (issued by CSCS, via industry accreditation) can move to an appropriate card.  

This may be by:

  • Recognising a qualification they already have.
  • Assessing their competence against the relevant qualification for their occupation.
  • In exceptional cases undertaking additional training (for most you already know this stuff!).

There are two options for experienced workers to achieve a VQ, these are EWPA – Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (where candidates attend a test centre) or more commonly OSAT – Onsite Assessment and Training.  We’ve detailed below how to obtain qualifications via these routes and how to access funding below.

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What is the simplest way for most people to get qualified - Onsite Assessment and Training (OSAT)?

 

An OSAT can be undertaken by an experienced candidate working within scope of the qualification.

  • For an OSAT, an assessor will visit the candidate on site where they will observe the candidate undertaking the activities relevant to the units/requirements of their qualification.
  • Knowledge can be captured through a recorded professional discussion. Evidence can also be gathered from portfolio documents, witness testimonies and other type of evidence (many companies issue Q&A sheets to address knowledge – it should be flexible and planned with the candidate).
  • Assessment visits are conducted when required, or when a candidate is in a confident position to be assessed.
  • Once the assessor is happy that the candidate has met the assessment criteria, the candidate will be signed off.
  • There are no time stipulations to undertaking an OSAT (candidates must be able to communicate with their assessor and be working within scope of the VQ) and it can be carried out over a period of time, as it is evidence based to ensure the candidate fulfils the criteria.

OSATs are available and are delivered through various training providers for most card holders. They are relatively painless and can be done in a few weeks.

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Is it possible to do an assessment offsite – Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA)?

 

  • This route involves individuals/candidates attending a training centre to undertake the assessment.
  • During the assessment, the candidates are in separate booths, and are given a set of instructions to follow.
  • This is a time bound assessment, candidates usually have around 6-8 hours to carry out the tasks.
  • An assessor will oversee these candidates/individuals, capturing evidence of the candidate doing different activities and anything that is relevant to meet the requirements.
  • This is followed up with a professional discussion which is recorded.

The EWPA route is applicable for those who typically have five years' worth of general site experience.

An example of EWPA courses are below:

  • NVQ level 2 Interior System – Ceiling Fixing
  • NVQ level 2 Interior System – Modular Demountable Partitioning
  • NVQ level 2 Interior System – Drylining Fixing
  • NVQ level 2 Solid Plastering
  • (Note) This is a faster route than the OSAT but is only available in a small number of trades

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Which Training Providers offer VQ assessment?

The following Approved Training Provider’s (FIS members) offer VQ assessment:

  • Construction Help Line Ltd
  • DMR Training
  • GQA Qualifications
  • Hartsmere UK Limited
  • HSS Training
  • Now Get Qualified Ltd
  • The Construction Skills People Ltd
  • The Skills Centre London Ltd

They will visit you on site and carry out an assessment – you can be assessed on the job, you don’t need to do an exam or test. All companies can be contacted via the Member Directory – FIS.

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How much will it cost and where can I get more information?

CITB is offering enhanced grants to help encourage people through the VQ process. In most instances the money for the training can be claimed back via the employing company. All of the training providers above can advise on this, but if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Marie Flinter at marieflinter@thefis.org

FIS is here to help

If you would like to discuss your situation further or have any questions, feel free to reach out to our Skills and Training Advisor Marie Flinter at marieflinter@thefis.org

See more news likes this

CITB achieves Consensus for its 2026-29 Levy Proposals

CITB achieves Consensus for its 2026-29 Levy Proposals

CITB has announced that 67% of construction employers have voted in favour of its Levy plans, after confirming that it achieved Consensus in support for its Levy Proposals that aim to help provide training for the construction industry across the next three years. FIS...

Start your Net Zero journey with a free assessment

Start your Net Zero journey with a free assessment

FIS has been working closely with the Supply Chain Sustainability School for over three years now. Together they have organised several webinars to showcase the great sustainability initiatives of the fit-out sectors. Topics have included reuse, circular economy,...

Enhancing Risk Management: Exclusive Insurance Solutions

Enhancing Risk Management: Exclusive Insurance Solutions

At FIS, we understand the importance of providing robust insurance support to our members, which is why FIS is partnered with Construction Shield, a leader in insurance consulting.

This collaboration opens up a wealth of opportunities for our members to assess their current coverage efficiently. With the expertise of Construction Shield, you can now evaluate the effectiveness of your existing insurance policies and identify areas for improvement. Not only can you gain insights into your current coverage, but you’ll also have access to alternative quotes that could better suit your specific needs.

In our ongoing effort to keep costs at a minimum for our members, we are excited to announce that FIS will waive any commission fees associated with this service. This means that you can benefit from Construction Shield’s expertise without worrying about additional costs. Instead, the savings generated from this partnership will be rebared direct to the member.

Making a Difference

Find out how our partnerships can help you

See our partnerships and benefits

Shaping the future of skills and training

Shaping the future of skills and training

FIS is looking for individuals to join our Skills Board to help shape our skills strategy.

The Skills Board provides opportunities for members to raise issues, share best practice and hear from other key stakeholders invested in Skills and Training.

It is a dynamic forum designed to:

  • Guide FIS in support of the sector for all types of training and qualification outcomes.
  • Support innovation and promote best practice in Training Delivery.
  • Support the sector to ensure sufficient skills and knowledge for a competent workforce.
  • Comment on and contribute to the content of qualifications and standards for the sector.

The Skills Board meet quarterly online with the next one to take place in September (date TBC).

 We are also looking for a new Chair and Vice Chair for Skills Board, a brief description of duties are listed below:

 The Role of the Chair

The Chair of the FIS Skills Board is a non-executive role elected by the existing members of the board responsible for chairing the quarterly meetings of the FIS Skills Board.

 Their role is to ensure that the views of the membership are fairly represented by through the Board and that FIS work is steered by and meets the needs of the wider membership.

 The Chair must come from an FIS member company and preferably a champion of skills development.

 The FIS Head of Skills, FIS Skills and Training Advisor and FIS CEO, Iain McIlwee will confer with the Chair on matters such as future direction and skills and training strategy.

Vice Chair of the FIS Skills Board

The Vice Chair of the FIS Training Group and FIS Skills Board is a non-executive role elected by the existing members of the board. The role of the Vice Chair is to support the current chair and to deputise in the absence of the Chair.

 Should the Chair, for any reason leave post it is expected that the Vice Chair would step-up to act as Chair until such a time as the change can be ratified through the Skills Board or alternative Chair is appointed.

The role is designed to support the Chair in ensuring that the views of the membership are fairly represented through the Skills Board and that FIS work is steered by and meets the needs of the wider membership.

 The Vice Chair must come from an FIS member company and be a champion of skills development.

 If you are interested in getting involved, email beenanana@thefis.org

Building Control Authority – update on application approvals

Building Control Authority – update on application approvals

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) recognises the challenges and issues that recent delays to building control application approvals for higher-risk building work are causing industry.  It has published an update on those challenges and issues:
“(The BSR) is contacting all applicants who have been directly affected and we want to assure everyone that the necessary contingency is in place which will allow us to stabilise and improve the service over the coming months and for the future.  New applications will not go into the backlog and be processed within normal timelines.
“While in part the delays have arisen due to an unexpected increase in applications coming into BSR, we are also experiencing a high number of applications which are incomplete or unclear, making them unsuitable for approval. This is particularly the case for smaller refurbishment projects and work on existing buildings.
“As the regulator, we will not:

  • tell you how to comply with the requirements of the building regulations
  • provide pre-application advice on building control applications

“For some complex projects we may provide advice on the best way of staging your application. For example, multi-building projects. Advice on the buildings regulations, if needed, should be sought from competent professionals.
“We need applicants to play their part to help facilitate the process by ensuring their applications provide quality, detailed information that clearly and comprehensively demonstrates compliance with building regulations.  High-quality applications help BSR make informed decisions quickly, reducing the risk of misinterpretation and ensuring all building control standards are met.  Applications which lack the required detailed information or fail to demonstrate clear compliance will be rejected.
“Applicants do not need to contact BSR again after they have submitted their applications.  We will contact applicants directly where necessary, for example if we need to request further information or when applications are moving forward.
“Earlier this week (the BSR) shared some useful Q&A via the Construction Leadership Council on making building control applications. You can find a link at the bottom of this article.  You can also revisit the following presentations delivered at our conference in May:

“We will publish further information and resources on our Making Buildings Safer website over the coming weeks.”

A-level Results Day – Unveiling Career Opportunities and Pathways

A-level Results Day – Unveiling Career Opportunities and Pathways

With today being A-level results day we want to reach out to everyone who is thinking about the next step in their career journey.

The construction industry, offers numerous career opportunities. The finesse of the industry lies in the finishes and interiors sector, where Apprenticeships and NVQs in plastering, drylining, ceilings, and partition fixing are available.

Prospective construction professionals can embark on several routes which include opportunities to gain experience in the workplace, underlining proficiency in a specific job role. These avenues equip you with the hands-on skills needed to progress and succeed in the diverse world of construction.

The finishes and interiors sector is a dynamic field, presenting an array of career pathways – from budding novice to seasoned leader. As expertise is gathered, you can climb the ladder from apprentice to site supervisor.

If you have any questions about getting started with a career in the Finishes and Interiors Sector, email beenanana@thefis.org 

Sound interesting?

Find out more about careers in our sector and the skills needed.

Updates to BS8000-Part 8

Updates to BS8000-Part 8

After BS8000-Part 8: Workmanship on construction sites – design and installation of dry lining systems code of practice was published last year, it was noted that some of the drawings were not as clear as they could have been and the values for openings in drylining were incorrect. BSI has subsequently re-published the document.

FIS has produced a Technical Note outlining the changes, which can be downloaded here.

Government Focus on UK Recruitment

Government Focus on UK Recruitment

In a Written Ministerial Statement to Parliament, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has set out plans to reduce net migration in favour of sectors “sourc[ing] the skills they need here at home”. Promising a new approach that “links migration policy and visa controls to skills and labour market policies”, she has commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the reliance of key sectors on international recruitment, starting with engineering and IT, which have consistently been on the list of shortage occupations for over a decade. The Government will keep a number of changes introduced by the previous Government, including maintaining the salary threshold for Skilled Worker Visas at £38,700 and scrapping the 20% going rate discount for overseas workers in shortage occupations.

Build UK’s flowchart provides an overview of the process of employing a worker from outside the UK in construction, with detailed guidance on How to Get a Sponsor Licence and How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Visa.

Find out more about FIS work to address the Skills Shortage here

Contract Terms Guidance Updated

Contract Terms Guidance Updated

Following the release of the first JCT 2024 contracts, which include a number of changes in response to our recommendation on contract terms, Build UK has updated its guidance on implementing the recommendation when using JCT contracts. The changes, which will help to support a fairer allocation of risk through the supply chain, include:

  • Fitness for Purpose ‐ A new clause containing an express exclusion for fitness for purpose, making it clear that in undertaking the design, the contractor will have no duty beyond reasonable skill and care, and will not be subject to any fitness for purpose obligation in respect of its design
  • Unquantifiable Risks ‐ The range of events giving rise to an extension of time and/or loss and expense has been extended to include asbestos, contaminated material and unexploded ordnance, in addition to antiquities, allowing the parties to agree a share of the risk in the event of such conditions
  • Uncapped Liabilities ‐ A new footnote highlighting that the parties may wish to agree a cap on liability, with model clauses now included in the Guide.

The business environment remains challenging, and our recommendation identifies six contract terms that should be avoided in order to promote collaboration and realise better project outcomes. The updated guidance is designed to help implement the recommendation by explaining why each term should be avoided and setting out ways to manage the underlying issues in a more collaborative way, with specific guidance for both JCT and NEC contracts.

BuildUK represent large contractors in the UK and they state that the recommendation is non‐binding and Build UK members are free to negotiate their own contractual terms.

Whilst this is the case FIS CEO Iain McIlwee stressed the importance of “not putting up with rubbish contracts” and encouraged members to report unreasonable contract terms to the FIS so that we can take them up with BuildUK and, if necessary the contractor in question on a collective level.

FIS Members can (and are encouraged) to report unreasonable and irresponsible contract clauses via our website here.

Further help on legal and contractual matters is available by calling the dedicated FIS Legal Helplines (supported by expert lawyers and quantity surveyors).  This helpline is available during office hours Monday – Friday via 0121 707 0077.

A raft of legal advice, support and training is available via the FIS Contractual and Legal Toolkit.  Here you will also find details of our subsidised contract review service and details of recommended training on legal and contractual matters.

Find out more about FIS campaign to support better contracting: The Responsible No here

FIS is supporting the Conflict Avoidance Coalition: Find out more about the coalition and signing the Pledge here

Build UK Claims Members Maintain Payment Terms

Build UK Claims Members Maintain Payment Terms

The latest results published under the Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regulations show that Build UK members have maintained theirpayment performance over the last six months. For the first time, BuildUK claim all tier one Contractor members are paying invoices within an average of 45 days, which will be the requirement for new Government contracts over £5 million from April 2025. On average, Build UK Contractor members now pay 96% of invoices in 60 days and none of them average less than 90%.  Remember this relates to the volume of invoices paid.

FIS CEO Iain McIlwee said: “Whilst the headline is positive, we can’t let it distract us from the fact that our members are still finding getting paid a daily battle.  I suspect when we start seeing the value and not the volume paid and disputed invoices in the reports we will start to see some different patterns.  One thing we need to be doing is making sure as the new requirements come in that we compare them to what is happening on the ground to ensure that people are reporting accurately and fairly and not bending the rules.”   

With new reporting requirements on the value of invoices paid and disputed invoices coming into force from 1 January 2025.

If you need help getting paid, visit the FIS Contractual Toolkit.

Government Announces Ambitious Reforms to UK Migration System

Government Announces Ambitious Reforms to UK Migration System

Before the summer recess of Parliament, the Home Secretary, the Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP, published a Written Ministerial statement setting out the Government’s ambitions for the legal migration system, including new reforms which will link migration policy and visa controls and labour market policies. These consist of:

  • The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), Skills England, the Industrial Strategy Council, and the Labour Market Advisory Board will work together to support a coherent approach to skills, migration and labour market policy, engaging and working closely with the Devolved Governments;
  • The Government will commission the MAC to review the reliance on international recruitment in key sectors, commencing with IT and engineering; and
  • The Government will provide additional resources to the MAC to enable it to work more strategically to forecast future trends.

The Statement also confirms that the Government will keep some changes made earlier this year by the previous administration, including:

  • Restricting most overseas students from bringing family members to the UK;
  • Restricting the ability of care workers and senior care workers to bring dependants with them; and requiring all care providers sponsoring migrants in England to register with the Care Quality Commission;
  • Increasing the general salary threshold for those arriving on Skilled Worker visas by 48% from £26,200 to £38,700;
  • Abolishing the 20% going rate discount so that employers can no longer pay migrants less than UK workers in shortage occupations; and
  • Introducing measures announced on 23 May to reduce the potential for abuse on the student and graduate visa routes, working closely with the Department for Education to ensure the measures are effective.

Finally, the statement explains the need to balance respect for family life with the economic wellbeing of the UK. The Government will commission the MAC to review the financial requirements in the Family Immigration Rules, keeping the minimum income requirement in the Spouse/Partner route at £29,000 until the review is complete.

The following may also be of interest:

On 30 July, the Immigration Minister, Seema Malhotra MP published Written Ministerial Statement on Afghan Resettlement:

Written statements – Written questions, answers and statements – UK Parliament.

  • This Government is implementing the commitment that families who were separated by the military evacuation from Kabul in August 2021 can be reunited in the UK.
  • Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme Pathway 1 Stage 2: Separated Families opened on Tuesday 30 July. The window to submit an expression of interest will remain open for 3 months until 30 October 2024.

On 29 July, the Immigration Minister published a Written Ministerial statement on the European Entry/Exit System (EES)

Written statements – Written questions, answers and statements – UK Parliament

  • The UK Government is working to maintain border fluidity with the European Union throughout the implementation of the new Entry/Exit System, ensuring UK nationals and residents can continue to access European destinations effectively and efficiently.
  • Provides an update on the immediate steps being taken to improve preparations and levels of readiness.

FIS is working with the Construction Leadership Council to ensure that the Government understands the impact of current policy on the construction sector (more here) and has advice on employing migrant workers in our employment hub here.

To help members recruit overseas skilled workers to fill the skills gaps being experienced in the industry which is inhibiting growth, FIS has partnered with specialist immigration lawyers, Migrate UK to help members to explore whether hiring overseas skilled workers is a viable route for them Find out more here

Preview Invitation: FIS Training Modules for Estimators and Procurement Teams

Preview Invitation: FIS Training Modules for Estimators and Procurement Teams

FIS is developing a series of modules to help train the next generation of estimators and procurement teams and we would like to preview the modules with specialists who could help shape the final draft.

The training course has been designed to educate and inform new entrants to the sector and those moving from site-based activities to an in house estimating role and is broken into three modules

  • The contract Module
  • The commercial Module
  • The technical Module

The aim of this course is to provide:​

  • An overview of what estimating entails​
  • What contractual terms should be known​
  • How commercial decisions are made​
  • provide granular information about drylining systems to estimators.

We would like to invite you to have access to our development slides to let us know if we have missed anything or if there should be more emphasis on a particular aspect of the role.

Please contact FIS Technical Director Joe Cilia joecilia@thefis.org for details on how to access the course, and who knows, it could be the best read of the summer break?

Navigating the Changing Employment Law Landscape Under a New Labour Government

Navigating the Changing Employment Law Landscape Under a New Labour Government

The first part of 2024 was already full of Employment Law updates that were set to hit business owners. Now, with a new Labour government in charge, there’s even more change set to come in that will dramatically alter the landscape of employment rights.

Wondering how to get prepared? Join our Partner Citation for their ‘Employment law update – What to expect under a Labour government’ webinar on Wednesday 4 September at 10-11am for an exclusive briefing covering:

  1. An overview of 2024’s Employment Law changes.
  2. Current regulations that are already in force and what’s set to come into effect later in the year.
  1. What to expect from the Employment Rights Bill.
  2. The steps you need to take today to get prepared.

Register today to make sure you don’t miss out!

SECURE MY SPOT >

Maximising the Benefits of Employing Apprentices and New Entrants: CITB Support Webinars

Maximising the Benefits of Employing Apprentices and New Entrants: CITB Support Webinars

If you are considering hiring an Apprentice or New Entrant and are CITB registered and levy-compliant, the CITB New Entrant Support Team is ready to assist you every step of the way. Here is how they can support you:

  • Recruitment
  • CITB Funding
  • Administration (including setting up your Government Digital Account for accessing additional Grants)
  • Retention

For more information, reach out to marieflinter@thefis.org to receive links for the upcoming Webinars:

  • August 16 – 0930/1030
  • August 21 – 1600/1700
  • August 27 – 1600/1700

These webinars aim to provide valuable insights on optimising the advantages of hiring apprentices and new entrants. Industry experts will share recruitment best practices, how to navigate CITB funding opportunities, and effective retention strategies. They will also offer guidance on managing administrative tasks efficiently, allowing you to concentrate on developing your workforce.

Whether you are new to the process or want to improve your current approach, these webinars offer a great opportunity to learn and network with industry peers. Seize the chance to streamline your operations and make the most of the available support.

To secure your spot, contact Marie Flinter via the email provided. Let’s work together to build a more robust and skilled workforce for the future.