by admin | Aug 20, 2025 | CITB Grants, Safety Update
What Employers Need to Know and How All Star Safety Ltd Can Help
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced several key changes to how employers access funding for training. These updates aim to simplify the process, streamline support services, and improve accessibility for levy-registered employers. With the first changes going live in September 2025, now is the time to prepare.
Key Changes Announced by CITB
Launch of a New Online Grant Portal – 24 September 2025
CITB is launching a modernised online services platform to make grant applications easier and more transparent. The new system allows employers to:
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Apply for Apprenticeship and Qualification Grants online
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Track grant application status in real-time
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Manage account access with more control
Ahead of launch, CITB’s Customer Engagement team will offer guided support to help employers navigate the new system with confidence.
Closure of the Skills and Training (S&T) Fund – 30 September 2025
To reduce confusion and simplify routes to funding, Employer Networks (ENs) will become the single channel for business development support. The Skills and Training fund will close on 30 September 2025, and funding under this stream will shift to ENs going forward.
From this point, funding will also move to payment upon completion, rather than in advance.
Industry Accreditation Grant Uplift Ending Earlier Than Planned – Now 31 December 2025
The grant uplift for qualifications linked to Industry Accreditation card replacement—originally due to run until 31 March 2026—will now end early on 31 December 2025. After this date, grants for relevant NVQs will return to the standard £600 rate.
This change will have a direct impact on current learners working toward NVQs to replace blue, gold or black CSCS cards gained through Industry Accreditation (Grandfather Rights), as well as any new sign-ups in the coming months.
At All Star Safety Ltd, we are proactively monitoring this development and will communicate directly with all affected clients and training partners once we receive confirmation from CITB. Learners currently working through their qualifications should aim to complete before the December 2025 cut-off to ensure the enhanced funding is applied.
New £240 Grant Tier for Award-Level Qualifications – From September 2025
CITB will introduce a new grant tier of £240 for Award-level qualifications, which are typically shorter and less costly than full qualifications. The aim is to better align grant values with qualification structure and cost.
Closure of the ‘Suggest a Course’ Initiative
As Employer Networks are now well-established, CITB is closing the ‘Suggest a Course’ feature. Local employer input will now be gathered through ENs to shape training priorities and funding availability.
What This Means for Employers Working with All Star Safety Ltd
At All Star Safety Ltd, we are fully aligned with these CITB changes and ready to support your business in accessing the right funding and training:
✅ NVQ Training – We provide a wide range of CITB-approved NVQs that qualify for grant support, including blue and black card upgrades before the uplift ends.
✅ Guided Support for Funding Applications – We will continue working closely with employers to help plan, apply for, and deliver funded training efficiently under the new portal system.
✅ NPORS and First Aid – Our popular plant and health and safety training options remain eligible under EN and CITB grants.
✅ Upcoming IOSH Courses – From September 2025, we’ll be delivering IOSH Managing Safely, Working Safely, and Managing Safely e-learning, which may qualify under the new grant tiers depending on format and duration.
Next Steps
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✅ Review your training needs before the grant uplift ends in December 2025
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✅ Prepare to use the new CITB grant portal launching 24 September
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✅ Contact us to ensure NVQ, NPORS or IOSH training qualifies under current schemes
Contact us to see how we can assist you in accessing funding and staying compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402 | 📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk
🌐 Visit our contact page
by admin | Aug 6, 2025 | First Aid, Health and Safety, IOSH, NPORS, NVQs, Safety Update
New Regulatory Agenda Highlights Health Concerns and Regulatory Updates
At its Autumn 2025 AGM, the Health and Safety Executive unveiled key priorities: a sharper focus on work‑related ill health (particularly stress, respiratory and musculoskeletal illnesses), a planned overhaul of RIDDOR reporting, and a review of its Fee for Intervention (FFI) enforcement scheme. These reforms coincide with the Building Safety Regulator’s transition into a standalone body, ensuring enforcement remains proportionate yet effective .
Why These Updates Matter to Construction Employers
While major incidents often attract attention, occupational ill health now accounts for a far higher cost—estimated at £1.4 billion per year—impacting productivity, morale and legal obligations . Construction workers continue to face risks from dust exposure, vibration tools, manual handling, hearing loss and stress-related injuries.
Changes in reporting under Revised RIDDOR guidance aim to simplify submission processes, but also clarify responsibilities when ill health is suspected on site.
FFI reviews may adjust enforcement expectations, meaning businesses will need strong records and clearly demonstrable systems to maintain fair fees and inspection outcomes.
How All Star Safety Supports Health‑First Construction Practices
At All Star Safety Ltd, we support clients by embedding a preventive focus, enhancing competence and aligning your operations with evolving regulator expectations:
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Health‑Risk Consultancy & Surveys
We carry out health risk assessments targeting dust, vibration, manual handling, and psychosocial hazards—helping mitigate long‑term ill health risks.
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Site Toolbox Briefings & Training
Practical talks addressing safe systems—manual handling techniques, fatigue management, early reporting of ill‑health signs, and hearing protection.
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NVQ Qualifications (Levels 2–7)
Our programmes equip supervisors and managers with capability in hazard control, workforce welfare and compliant documentation.
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IOSH Courses from September 2025
Working Safely, Managing Safely (classroom/virtual) and Managing Safely e‑learning all include updated modules on ill‑health prevention, stress management, and RIDDOR compliance.
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NPORS Plant & Supervisor Training
Our plant training reinforces correct use of equipment to avoid vibration, ergonomic strain and exposure-inflicted health issues.
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First Aid at Work with Wellbeing Focus
First Aid courses now incorporate recognition of occupational illness symptoms and safe referral pathways for early intervention.
What You Should Do Now
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Review your health-risk assessments and toolbox talk schedules to address long-term ill health
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Identify roles suitable for NVQ or upcoming IOSH training, focusing on supervisors and site leaders
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Audit your RIDDOR procedures, ensuring clarity on illness reporting channels as revised guidance takes effect
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Document workplace controls and health measures to support fair FFI outcomes and inspection readiness
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Schedule NPORS and First Aid training to provide your workforce with ergonomic and emergency confidence
By proactively tackling health issues—physical and psychological—your business strengthens its duty-of-care, aligns with regulators and builds a healthier, more resilient workforce.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402 | 📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk
🌐 Visit our contact page
by admin | Jul 7, 2025 | Health and Safety, Safety Update
Transforming Building Safety Regulations
Navigating New Horizons in Housing Safety
Discover how the latest reforms in building safety regulations are set to revolutionize the housing sector, ensuring faster approvals and enhanced safety standards.
The recent transfer of the Building Safety Regulator to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities marks a pivotal shift in regulatory oversight. With seasoned experts like Andy Roe and Charlie Pugsley leading the charge, this transition is designed to streamline Gateway 2 approvals through a fast-track process. The initiative aims to expedite the construction of 1.5 million new homes while maintaining stringent safety protocols. This reform is not just about speed but about ensuring that safety standards are never compromised, even as the pace of development accelerates.
Implications for Construction Firms
For construction firms, these changes bring both opportunities and responsibilities. While the fast-track system promises quicker approvals, firms must remain vigilant in meeting all safety requirements. This includes maintaining comprehensive safety cases, ensuring workforce competence, and conducting thorough risk assessments. The onus is on dutyholders to adapt to these new expectations without compromising on safety or compliance. As the regulatory landscape evolves, firms must be proactive in aligning their practices with the latest standards to ensure both safety and operational efficiency.
In this new era of building safety, construction companies must navigate a complex regulatory environment. The responsibility to uphold safety standards remains paramount, even as processes become more efficient. Companies must focus on continuous improvement and training to meet the demands of the Building Safety Act, CDM 2015, and Fire Safety Order 2005. By investing in workforce development and strategic planning, firms can not only comply with regulations but also enhance their reputation for safety and reliability in the industry.
Our Expertise in Navigating Regulatory Changes
At All Star Safety, we provide comprehensive support to help firms navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. Our team of experts ensures that your business remains compliant with the latest safety standards.
BSR & Building Safety Consultancy
NVQ Programmes for Compliance
CPD-Focused Training Sessions
NPORS Training Centre Launching Soon
Steps to Stay Ahead of BSR Regulations
To ensure your business is prepared for the new BSR regulations, follow these essential steps:
Evaluate Gateway 2 Readiness
Conduct a thorough review of your documentation, personnel competence, and contractor procedures to ensure compliance.
Strategise Training Pathways
Identify and map out NVQ and NPORS training opportunities for your team to meet regulatory requirements.
Book Leadership CPD Sessions
Schedule Continuing Professional Development sessions to align your leadership with the latest BSR guidance.
Establish and train emergency and first-aid teams to handle complex site operations effectively.
Get in Touch for Expert Guidance
by admin | Jun 30, 2025 | Consultancy Services, Safety Update
Direct Ministerial Control Aims to Cut Gateway 2 Delays
In a major development announced today (30 June 2025), the government has taken direct charge of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), shifting it from the HSE to a new executive agency under the Ministry of Housing . With the appointment of former London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe and CEO Charlie Pugsley, along with over 100 new staff, the revamped BSR will introduce a Fast‑Track Process to help overcome current delays in Gateway 2 approvals for high‑rise and remediation projects .
This reform is part of a broader ambition to deliver 1.5 million safe, high‑quality homes—addressing longstanding concerns raised by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry about regulatory inefficiencies .
What This Means for Employers and Duty‑Holders
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Faster approvals will reduce project downtime—but sites must still comply fully with Building Safety Act, CDM and fire safety duties.
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Required documentation—Gateway submissions, safety case reports and competence frameworks—must be robust and complete before entering the fast‑track route.
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Employers should seize this opportunity to audit procedures, refresh training, and ensure competency for Gateway compliance.
How All Star Safety Supports Gateway‑Ready Compliance
At All Star Safety, we can help you stay ahead of the reforms and fast‑track your project readiness:
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Building Safety Consultancy & Audits
We review your Gateway documentation and competence systems to align with the new BSR expectations.
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NVQ Programmes (Levels 4–7)
Our qualifications in Site Management, Construction Management and Occupational H&S Practice ensure staff have recognised competency and can contribute to safety cases.
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CPD-Focused Briefings
Tailored training for project leaders on the Building Safety Act, Gateway process and responsibilities under CDM and Fire Safety regulations.
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NPORS Supervisor & Plant Training
Launching June 2025, our on-site NPORS sessions ensure supervisors and operators hold the correct competence levels for high-rise and remediation projects.
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First Aid & Emergency Awareness
From July 2025, our First Aid at Work courses include modules for evacuation, incident response and high-rise site hazards.
Take Action Now
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Audit your Gateway readiness, documentation and competence frameworks.
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Link your staff training to NVQ and NPORS programmes.
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Book consultancy to identify and close gaps before fast-track submission.
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Ensure First Aid, evacuation plans and emergency teams are well-trained.
With BSR reform accelerating project approvals, now is the time to demonstrate competence and compliance—complete with All Star Safety by your side.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402 | 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk
🌐 Visit our contact page
by admin | May 23, 2025 | Mental Health, Safety Update
Support Is Growing, but So Is the Pressure: What the Industry Still Needs to Do
Despite increasing access to support services, the UK construction industry continues to face a mental health crisis, with high rates of stress, anxiety, depression, and suicide among workers. A recent report from the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) shows that while awareness is improving, the reality on site remains unchanged for many—highlighting the need for deeper cultural change and targeted training interventions.
In an industry where tight deadlines, long hours, remote working conditions, and high-risk tasks are the norm, mental health can no longer be treated as a secondary concern.
Why Mental Health Still Lags Behind on Site
While more companies are offering access to helplines or mental health champions, the root issues remain unaddressed. Common challenges include:
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Stigma around discussing emotional or psychological stress
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Supervisors not trained to recognise or manage wellbeing risks
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Limited access to ongoing CPD or structured wellbeing initiatives
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Lack of mental health integration in existing risk assessments and toolbox talks
With high suicide rates—particularly among male construction workers—the call for urgent, embedded wellbeing strategies is louder than ever.
How Training and Qualifications Can Play a Role
Improving workplace mental health starts with competent leadership and communication. All Star Safety offers NVQs and in-house training that can help supervisors and site managers develop the awareness and confidence to foster better wellbeing culture:
By embedding mental health awareness into training and competency, employers can turn policy into practice.
Supporting Workforce Wellbeing with Training and First Aid
From July 2025, All Star Safety will also offer:
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1-Day Emergency First Aid at Work
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3-Day First Aid at Work
Delivered at our new facility at The Suffolk Enterprise Centre, Ipswich, or on-site at client premises for group bookings.
We also support companies with developing All Star Safety certified in-house training to raise awareness and improve day-to-day conversations around mental wellbeing.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in supporting a safer, healthier construction workforce.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk
🌐 Visit our contact page
by admin | May 19, 2025 | Health and Safety, NVQs, Safety Update
Sector Urged to Invest in Competency at Senior Level to Meet Modern Safety Demands
A new report released by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) highlights an urgent need for skilled leadership in construction safety, particularly at senior management and director level. As featured in CIOB – Leadership in the Construction Industry article, the report shows that while many organisations have improved frontline safety processes, too few have robust, proactive safety leadership embedded at the top of their organisational structure.
The CIOB emphasises that to meet the expectations of the Building Safety Act and evolving regulatory standards, senior decision-makers must not only understand their legal duties but also demonstrate visible, accountable leadership in occupational health and safety.
What the Report Recommends
The CIOB report recommends that construction businesses:
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Ensure directors and senior leaders have formal health and safety qualifications
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Integrate safety performance into strategic decision-making
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Prioritise ongoing CPD and NVQ qualifications for leaders overseeing high-risk environments
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Champion a culture of safety by modelling behaviours and holding others accountable
Leadership that lacks understanding of site realities or regulatory expectations can create disconnects that undermine safety culture across the business.
NVQs That Equip Leaders with Safety Oversight Skills
All Star Safety offers Level 6 and Level 7 NVQs that are specifically designed to help senior professionals meet modern safety leadership expectations:
These qualifications offer portfolio-based, flexible routes to demonstrating competency, aligned with HSE and client expectations.
How All Star Safety Can Help
✔ Remote and in-person NVQ assessment delivered nationwide
✔ Guidance tailored to senior professionals balancing operational and strategic responsibilities
✔ Support with CPD planning and progression through the CSCS card scheme
✔ Consultancy services to help embed safety leadership into business operations
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk
🌐 Visit our contact page