BBC reporting fraudulent behaviour in the classroom

Published: October 21, 2015

Following the reports on BBC London and Newsnight (Wednesday 21 October) regarding people fraudulently obtaining construction related qualifications, CSCS has made the following statement:

CSCS takes the issue of fraudulent activity extremely seriously and it is essential that steps are taken to prevent it.

It is important to note that CSCS is not responsible for developing qualifications or delivering construction industry training.

CSCS relies on the Awarding Organisations (approved by qualifications regulator OFQUAL) to monitor the performance of their approved training providers and to verify that an individual has achieved the required qualifications before CSCS issues a card.

CSCS works closely with the Awarding Organisations, CITB, HMRC, the Police, Trading Standards and other agencies to identify and take action against those attempting to deceive construction employers.

CSCS is confident the vast majority of cards issued are a result of obtaining a qualification legitimately.

In cases where the awarding organisations inform CSCS that a card was obtained fraudulently the card is cancelled immediately and action taken against individuals and organisations attempting to deceive construction employers.

It is CSCS’s firm belief to ensure UK construction sites remain safe, construction site workers must have legitimate training and qualifications before allowed to work on site. CSCS will continue to share intelligence and work with the authorities when the evidence suggests criminal activity is taking place.