If you're planning construction training and have heard CITB funding "isn't what it used to be," you've heard right. CITB made significant changes to its Grants Scheme from 8 January 2026, and they affect some of the most commonly booked courses in the industry — including SMSTS and SSSTS.
Here's a clear, current breakdown of what's actually changed.
Short courses moved out of the standard Grants Scheme
Previously, employers could book a short course — SMSTS, SSSTS, Temporary Works Coordinator, Health and Safety Awareness, and similar — complete it, and claim a grant directly from CITB afterward. That automatic route has now closed for most short courses.
The exceptions: Plant Operations, Scaffolding, and a small number of other specialist courses remain eligible for the standard Short Course Grant. Everything else — including SMSTS and SSSTS — is now funded through CITB Employer Networks instead, generally at a reduced rate compared to the old grant.
As a real example: SMSTS funding has dropped from up to £240–378 under the previous scheme to £115 through the new Employer Network route.
First Aid training has lost CITB funding entirely. There's currently no grant or Employer Network support for First Aid courses booked from 8 January 2026 onward.
NVQ and long qualification funding has also changed
- Achievement grants for completed NVQs (Level 2 through Level 6) are now a flat £600, regardless of level — previously, higher-level qualifications attracted larger grants.
- Attendance grants during a qualification have been removed.
- Level 7 qualifications starting after 8 December 2025 are no longer supported for standard funding.
- Apprenticeships and Scottish Advanced Craft Qualifications (SCQF Level 7) are unaffected by any of these changes.
What this means practically
Funding hasn't disappeared — but it's less automatic than it used to be, and the amounts have generally reduced for short courses. If you're CITB Levy-registered, funding for courses like SMSTS and SSSTS is now accessed through your regional Employer Network rather than a direct grant claim, and it's worth speaking to a CITB adviser or your training coordinator early, since Employer Network budgets are regional and finite.
What we can help with
We'll always give you an honest, current answer on what funding applies to your specific course and situation — rather than a blanket "grant funding available" claim that doesn't reflect these changes. Use our funding eligibility check or get in touch, and we'll walk you through exactly what's realistic for your training plan.
This article reflects CITB's published policy changes as of 11 July 2026. Funding rules can change — always confirm current rates directly with CITB or your Employer Network adviser before budgeting for training.