Raeburn Training

In the fast-paced and often high-pressure world of construction, the wellbeing of workers can too easily be overlooked. Long hours, physically demanding labour, tight deadlines, and financial insecurity can all take a heavy toll and, when combined, these pressures can push people into crisis.  

That's why we are taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, the only organisation 100% dedicated to supporting the construction community across the UK and Ireland.  

Their mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that no construction worker or their family ever feels alone in a crisis. Through free, confidential, and round-the-clock emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing support, they are transforming lives across the industry one call, one site visit, one conversation at a time.  

Origins and Mission

The Lighthouse Charity traces its roots back to 1956, when a group of construction professionals attending a Ministry of Public Buildings & Works exhibition in Whitley Bay pledged to create a beacon for those in need within the industry.

Today, that vision has evolved into a modern, multi-faceted charity that provides free and confidential support across three core pillars: emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing.

What Lighthouse Does: Services & Programmes

Lighthouse’s support is built to be holistic and accessible, meeting people wherever they are- on the phone, online, or on site. Here’s a breakdown of their principal services and programmes:

1. 24/7 Helpline

    2. Digital Support

    3. Critical Incident Support Team

    4. Lighthouse Beacons and On-Site Presence

    5. Financial & Welfare Support

    Because wellbeing is more than mental health, Lighthouse also supports: 

    Measurable Impact

    The charity’s 2024 Impact Report tells a story of growth, compassion, and measurable change. Over the past year, more workers have reached out for help- with a 29% increase in support requests, resulting in 5,696 families receiving vital assistance.  

    In total, Lighthouse delivered over £5 million in charitable support, handled more than 11,000 helpline calls, and delivered 5,761 counselling and mentoring sessions. They delivered 5,684 family meals and engaged 28,070 site operatives. 

    Behind each number is a story of hope- a tradesman overcoming addiction, a joiner’s family rebuilding life after a stroke, a survivor of domestic abuse finding safety and confidence, or a worker finally breaking free from isolation. The Lighthouse Charity doesn't just respond to crises; it restores dignity, stability, and belief in a better tomorrow. 

    #MakeItVisible: Breaking the Silence on Site 

    Mental health stigma remains one of construction’s biggest challenges- but Lighthouse is changing that, one site at a time. 

    Through the #MakeItVisible On Site campaign, dedicated teams travel across the UK & Ireland, visiting construction sites, hire yards, and offices to start open conversations about wellbeing. In 2024, they visited 574 sites and engaged directly with over 28,000 workers. 

    These visits save lives. Last year, 88 workers disclosed suicidal thoughts to the team- and each one was immediately connected to professional support and follow-up care. 

    Team members often share their own lived experiences, making these sessions relatable and authentic. As one industry partner put it: 

    “The #MakeItVisible tour is incredible. Its honest, down to earth, and full of real- life experiences that people can truly relate to.” 

    Wellbeing Academy

    Beyond crisis intervention, Lighthouse is helping to reshape construction’s culture through education. The Wellbeing Academy offers free and subsided training to help individuals and organisations build resilience and awareness. 

    In 2024 alone, more than 4,700 learners completed courses. Topics range from Mental Health First Aid, Suicide Awareness, and Managing Mental Health in the Workplace, to Menopause Awareness, Resilience Building, and Financial Wellbeing. 

    These programmes empower workers to look out for one another, foster empathy, and create safer, more supportive environments across and levels of the industry. 

    Why Lighthouse Matters

    Construction is an inherently risky sector. Its demanding, unpredictable, and often isolating. Many workers face short-term contracts, long commutes, or financial instability. Add to this the physical toll of labour and the cultural stigma around seeking help- and the result can be devastating.  

    Lighthouse breaks through these barriers. It offers a hand when pride, fear, or lack of access might otherwise stop someone reaching out. It reminds us that asking for help is not a weakness, but a strength. 

    As Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, explains: 

    “Emotional, physical, and financial wellbeing are intrinsically linked- and we’re here to help our community build healthy, sustainable futures.” 

    How the Industry Can Support

    Lighthouse receives no government funding- every helpline call, counselling session, or rescue is made possible by donations, partnerships, and fundraising within the industry. 

    Here’s how companies and individuals can help: 

    Help is Here

    If you or someone you know works in construction and is struggling, remember- help is here. 

    Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and more compassionate construction industry- one where no worker ever has to face a crisis alone. 

    CITB is simplifying how employers access training support and making key changes to the Grants Scheme. While some funding routes are closing, others remain in place- and a new online portal will soon make applications easier. Below is a clear summary of what's changing, what's staying, and what to do next to protect your funding. 

    What's Changing

    1. New Online CITB Grant Portal

    From 24 September 2025, CITB is launching a new digital system, allowing employers to:

    2. Skills & Training Fund Closing

    From 30 September 2025, the Skills & Training Fund will close. Employer Networks will become the single route for further developing businesses, while the Grants Scheme continues for day-to-day training. September funding will be paid on completion of the agreement under new payment terms.

    3. Short Qualification Grant Change

    From September 2025, a new grant tier applies to very short “Award” qualifications. The grant will be adjusted to £240 (previously £600), reflecting the shorter length and lower cost of these courses- but still providing valuable support for quick, efficient training.

    4. Industry Accreditation Grant Uplift Ends

    The enhanced grant for Management and Supervisory qualifications (linked to replacing CSCS Industry Accreditation cards) will end on 31 December 2025. After that, grants revert to the standard £600.  These uplifts were introduced for a period to support the transition away from Grandfather rights to recognised qualifications.  

    5. End of “Suggest a Course” Feature 

    The “Suggest a Course” initiative is being retired, with Employer Networks now the main channel for shaping training priorities. 

    6. Plant Training Standards Updated 

    New plant training standards launched on 18 June 2025. Grants will be paid against the new standards (generally £250- £880 depending on category). These must be delivered by a CITB Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and carry the CSCS logo, which in practice means operatives will then need to work towards a Vocational Qualification (VQ). Older plant training/test grants will no longer apply for achievements on or after this date. 

    7. “Into Work” Grant Pilot End Date 

    The "Into Work" grant pilot supports employers by providing financial help for both the work experience component of approved further education courses and a three-month period of direct employment. This pilot will end on 30 November 2025. 

    What's Staying

    CITB confirms the Grants Scheme continues. Employers can still claim for short courses, qualifications, and apprenticeships across England, Scotland, and Wales. In particular: 

    Who's Affected

    Key Dates

    What You Should Do Now

    1. Audit Your Training Plans

    Review which staff are partway through qualifications, plant tests, or apprenticeships, and check if they'll complete before the funding rules change. Adjust budgets where achievements fall after rule changes.

    2. Register for the New Portal 

    Set up CITB Online access before the new system launches on 24 September. You’ll need your CITB Levy number and company details to register. Once logged in, you can manage grant claims, training records, and funding applications through the portal.

    3. Join Your Local Employer Network 

    With the Skills & Training Fund ending, ENs are now the channel for business development support and training priorities. 

    4. Align UK and Scottish Routes 

    Map NVQ/SVQ/SCQF pathways to maximise grant opportunities and identify which quals remain at £600 vs £240. 

    5. Update Plant Training 

    Make sure all training and testing follows the June 2025 standards to remain eligible for grants. 

    How Can Raeburn Training Help? 

    If you’re looking to maximise access to CITB funding, Raeburn Training can support you from start to finish- from identifying the right grants to managing claims and delivering approved training. Contact our team today on 01592 724 797 or email [email protected].

    If you are planning to work on a construction site in the UK, holding a valid CSCS card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) is essential. The CSCS card proves that you have the required training, qualifications and awareness of health and safety to do your job safely and responsibly.

    In this guide, we will explain the steps to get your CSCS card, the types of Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) tests available, and what qualifications you need depending on the card you are applying for.

    Step 1: Understand Which CSCS Card You Need

    There are several types of CSCS cards, each designed for different job roles. Choosing the correct card depends on your qualifications, experience and the type of work you will be doing. You can use the CSCS Card Finder to check which card you need, or get in touch with our team.

    Here are the most common CSCS cards:

    Step 2: Take the Right CSCS Test

    Before you can apply for any CSCS card, you must pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test, commonly referred to as the CSCS test. The type of test you need will depend on the role you are applying for.

    The Three Main Types of CSCS Tests:

    1. Operatives Test
      Required for Green Labourer Card, Trainee Card and most Blue Skilled Worker Cards
      Covers basic health, safety and environmental awareness
    2. Specialists Test
      Required for Skilled Worker, Advanced Craft and Supervisor Cards in specific trades
      Covers core safety topics plus trade-specific knowledge
    3. Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test
      Required for Black Managers Card and Academically Qualified Persons Card
      Covers core topics plus managerial and professional responsibilities on site

    Step 3: Obtain the Required Qualification

    In addition to passing the appropriate CSCS test, most cards require you to hold a recognised qualification. If you require support in gaining an SVQ, please get in touch with our team and we can direct you to the relevant providers.

    Common Qualifications Include:

    Step 4: Apply for Your CSCS Card

    Once you have passed the correct test and gained the necessary qualification you can apply for your CSCS card. This can be done via the official CSCS website, by calling their application line or Raeburn Training can make the application on your behalf (please request this at the time of booking).

    To make your application you will need:

    Tips for Success

    Conclusion

    Getting your CSCS card is a crucial step to building a safe and successful career in construction. By understanding which card and test you need and ensuring you have the right qualifications, you will be well on your way to getting on site and getting to work.

    If you are ready to book your CSCS test or take an approved training course, Raeburn Training can help guide you through the process from start to finish. Get in touch with our team on 01592 724 797 or email [email protected].

    chevron-down