Covid-19: CITB chief exec update – 2 April 2020

Good afternoon

I hope you’re keeping well – we know things are tough for you right now, which is why mental health is crucial in our industry at this time. Today my update on supporting you during the COVID-19 crisis is focused on wellbeing and providing support for the NHS.

To see the support packages CITB has already introduced for employers please visit our COVID-19 update page.

Wellbeing

CITB is funding the training of mental health first aid instructors for many in the industry. Instructors have come from employers, federations and clients. The training is provided by Mental Health First Aid England and the project has been managed on behalf of industry by the Lighthouse Club.

This is a charity dedicated to the health and wellbeing of construction workers and their families. The charity’s Construction Industry Helpline is needed now more than ever, with a recent increase in calls of at least 25%, while there’s also a helpline app you can download here.

Due to the current crisis, the charity is unable to go ahead with many national and regional events that provide other income. If you’d like to make a donation, you can do so here, with more information on the current crisis appeal is here.

Support for the NHS

Construction is under extreme pressure right now, and I know you’re doing all you can to stay afloat. The NHS also needs our sector’s help. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) in England; Industry Wales; and the Scottish Government are asking employers to provide resources, wherever possible, including:

• PPE such as masks, gowns, and sanitiser
• accommodation
• transport and logistics for moving goods or people
• manufacturing equipment
• warehouse or office space for medical use or storage
• expert advice or consultancy in IT, manufacturing, construction, project management, procurement, or engineering.

CITB will be offering support in the form of PPE from our National Construction Colleges and potentially accommodation at Bircham Newton. If you would like to find out if or how you can help the NHS, please go to this page on the Government website and see also the National Business Response Network.

CITB’s COVID-19 updates page is being refreshed daily and includes information on a range of subjects, including Grants, Funding and the NCC. Please click here to view it.

To read the range of support measures made available to UK businesses and employees by the UK Government please click here.

Kind wishes

Sarah Beale

Chief Executive