News
Cost pressures dominate a mixed quarter
There were signs that the extended period of growth experienced by the construction supply chain began to ease in the second quarter of 2022, with cost inflation dominating the headlines of industry surveys. Whilst net balances for construction product manufacturers’...
FIS strengthens contractual support in troubling times
In the last few weeks FIS has seen an increase in requests from members related to contractual matters, some that are reaching a critical point. The range of requests for support have included delayed payments, price fluctuations and misalignment in pricing of...
Right to Work: Ukrainian & Afghan Workers and end to COVID relaxations
Employing Ukranian and Afghan Workers Minister for Refugees Lord Harrington has written to businesses confirming that Ukrainian and Afghan nationals have a right to work in the UK where they have resettled under the Ukraine Family Scheme, Homes for Ukraine Scheme,...
Exam Results 2022 – getting the message out that an amazing career awaits in construction
Approaching 700,000 of students collected exam results today (18 August). This included A and AS levels, level 3 vocational and technical qualifications as well as the new T’Levels - so far over 425,000 of these students have been confirmed places at University, but...
English apprenticeships off the job training policy has changed
From 1 August 2022, the 20% off-the-job requirement for all apprenticeships will no longer apply. It will be replaced by a baseline of six hours per week, irrespective of hours worked by the apprentice. It means apprentices who work more than 30 hours per week can...
Billions in unspent apprenticeship levy lost to Treasury ‘black hole’ new data reveals
Apprenticeships experts warn that the Treasury must be more transparent on how it spends the billions returned to its coffers. The rigid apprenticeship system is blamed for billions of skills funding going unspent by businesses and being returned to the Treasury. ...
Tickets are now on sale for Training Awards Lunch
The awards are a joint event between the Worshipful Company of Plaisterers and FIS to recognise achievement and excellence in plastering and interior trades. The event will be held at Plaisterers' Hall on 22 November and will celebrate the achievements of students and...
New guidance on employment status for workers and businesses
New guidance published by the government aims to provide businesses and workers – particularly in the gig economy – with greater clarity over employment status and the rights and employment protections people are entitled to at work, including pay, leave and working...
Don’t pay more than £36 for a CSCS card
Construction workers are being charged excessive sums by unaffiliated third party websites for their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) cards when they could pay just £36 via the official application service. CSCS continues to receive complaints from...