NICF Open Day - 19 April 2024 - dont forget to register to attend!

It's not long now until our Open Day on Friday 19 April, taking place at the FITA Training Centre in Loughborough. We are really looking forward to welcoming guests and exhibitors to this much anticipated event.  See full details below.

Members of the NICF Council will be there on the day to talk all things NICF.  If you are someone who has thought of joining the Institute but wondered about the benefits, then come along and have a chat.  You might already be an NICF member thinking of taking your master fitter assessment but are a little nervous about the process - come along and ask those niggling questions, it will put your mind at rest and hopefully you will feel confident to get the ball rolling. You might just want to catch up with industry colleagues over a bacon roll.  Whatever your reason for attending, don't delay, register your attendance via the QR code below. 

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to FITA for hosting the event for us.  There will be FITA representatives at the event and they will be able to chat about training and apprenticeships making this event even more valuable for attendees.  Perhaps you are thinking of taking on a trainee fitter, or just want to expand or improve your own fitting services, whichever, this is the ideal opportunity to discuss options available to you. 

 

 

08-04-2024 16:50

Andrew Stuart Cavey - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Andrew Stuart Cavey, a New Fitter Member from Launceston.

05-04-2024 14:51

Adam Chapman - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Adam Chapman, a New Fitter Member from Castle Gresley.

02-04-2024 15:54

NICF office - Easter closure

The NICF office will be closed for the Easter break from close of business Thursday 28 March 2024, reopening on Tuesday 2 April 2024.

Wishing all our members a Happy Easter.

27-03-2024 14:43

Lee Taylor - Returning Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back Lee Taylor a Master Fitter from Devon.

15-03-2024 14:50

Haydn Pollard - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Haydn Pollard, a New Fitter Member from Portsmouth.

12-03-2024 14:46

James Wilkinson - Returning Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back James Wilkinson, a Master Fitter Member from West Yorkshire.

16-02-2024 13:48

PRJ Flooring Services Ltd - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome PRJ Flooring Services Ltd, a new Retailer Member from Warwickshire.

15-02-2024 11:34

Josh Lindsay - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Josh Lindsay, a new Fitter Member from Portsmouth.

13-02-2024 14:53

James Barnes - Returning Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back James Barnes, a fitter from Merseyside.

 

05-02-2024 11:52

Javier Martin Mata - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Javier Martin Mata, a new Fitter Member from Rochdale in Greater Manchester.

02-02-2024 13:41

Jamie Page - Returning Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back Jamie Page, a Master Fitter Member from Buckinghamshire.

01-02-2024 14:47

Trevor Parmenter - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Trevor Parmenter, a new Fitter Member from Essex.

01-02-2024 14:42

Mark Acuta - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Mark Acuta a new fitter member from Essex.

22-01-2024 14:45

Flooring Supplies UK.com - New Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome Flooring Supplies UK.com, a new Patron Member from Hertfordshire.

15-01-2024 14:18

Harvey Glasgow - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Harvey Glasgow a new Fitter member from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

10-01-2024 11:45

Chlodel Carpets and Flooring Ltd - New Retail Member

The NICF would like to welcome new retail member, Chlodel Carpets and Flooring Ltd from Gloucester.

15-12-2023 12:29

Ian Grumble - new fitter member.

The NICF would like to welcome Ian Grumble, a new fitter member, from Worthing.

06-12-2023 14:05

NICF moving office - 27 and 28 November 2023

The NICF is moving office the week commencing Monday 27 November 2023 and every effort is being taken to minimise disruption during moving week.

Our new address is:

Unit 22 (Ground Floor) Eldon Business Park
Eldon Road
Chilwell
Nottingham
NG9 6DZ

All other contact information remains unchanged.

 

24-11-2023 10:38

Martin Read - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Fitter Member, Martin Read from Bedfordshire.

10-11-2023 16:18

Ballister - New Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Patron Member, Ballister from Middlesex

08-11-2023 15:13

Kirpa Singh Chana - new fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter Member Kirpa Singh Chana from Hounslow, Greater London.

02-11-2023 14:31

Steven Lane - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Steven Lane, a new Fitter Member from Willington in Derbyshire.

28-09-2023 16:28

Harry Rush - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Harry Rush, a new Fitter Member from Thatcham in Berkshire.

25-08-2023 14:33

Fitter of the Year 2023 - Finalists

NICF is delighted to announce that the finalists for the Fitter of hte Year 2023 competition are:    

 

• Wesley Brocklesby - Ossett, West Yorkshire
• Dean Dickinson - Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire
• Darrel Emery - Reading, Berkshire
• Daniel Jones - Thame, Oxfordshire
• Mathew Parkinson - Bolton, Lancashire

To find out more about the finalists please click here.

The finals are taking place at The Flooring Show, Harrogate on 17 and 18 September in the King's Suite.  The winner's presentation will take place on the competition stand at 4.00pm.

Good luck to all the finalists!

 

 

 

 

03-08-2023 19:27

Floormart - New Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome Floormart, a new Patron Member from Leicestershire.

 

28-07-2023 11:37

Jamie Hill - New Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome Jamie Hill a new Trainee Member from Gloucester.

24-07-2023 11:23

Zac Mason - New Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Zac Mason, a new Master Fitter from Merseyside.

11-07-2023 11:05

Aidan Parsonage - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Aidan Parsonage, a new Fitter Member from Brixham in Devon.

10-07-2023 15:43

David Harland - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome David Harland, a new Fitter Member from Berkshire.

29-06-2023 13:55

Simon Barton - New Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Simon Barton a new Master Fitter Member from Oxfordshire.

29-06-2023 13:52

SCS - New Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Patron member, SCS from Sunderland.

24-04-2023 15:23

Easter closure dates

The NICF office will be closed on Good Friday (7 April 2023) and Easter Monday (10 April 2023).

Happy Easter to all our members.

06-04-2023 17:00

Ian Bolton - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Ian Bolton, a New Fitter Member, from Lancashire.

01-03-2023 11:26

Jack Glander - New Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Trainee Member, Jack Glander from Dartford in Kent.

 

20-02-2023 14:47

New Patron Member WoolSafe Ltd

The NICF would like to welcome a new Patron Member, WoolSafe Ltd from Otley West Yorkshire

20-02-2023 11:35

Reece Dunn new NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter Member Reece Dunn from Plymouth, Devon

 

 

16-02-2023 10:56

New Retailer Member, William James Carpets & Flooring.

The NICF would like to welcome a new Retailer William James Carpets & Flooring from Crewe, Cheshire.

​​

31-01-2023 14:21

Benjamin Hodgson - New Trainee Member.

The NICF would like to welcome a new Trainee Member Benjamin Hodgson from Bishop Auckland.

 

20-01-2023 14:14

Gillies of Broughty Ferry Ltd - New Patron Member.

The NICF would like to welcome a New Patron Member, Gillies of Broughty Ferry Ltd, from Broughty Ferry, Dundee.

12-01-2023 11:04

Flooring Outlet new Retailer member.

The NICF would like to welcome a new Retailer member Flooring Outlet from Telford.

12-01-2023 10:59

Cary Ford - New Associate Member

The NICF would like to welcome Cary Ford as an Associate Member from Bristol.

 

 

19-12-2022 13:54

Stuart Blackett - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter Member, Stuart Blackett from Doncaster.

 

 

02-12-2022 16:19

Jordan Collins - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Jordan Collins a new Fitter Member from Cornwall.

25-11-2022 11:22

Just Beautiful Floors - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Retailer Member, Just Beautiful Floors from Devon.

 

 

23-09-2022 11:52

Death of Queen Elizabeth II

Sadly, it was announced earlier yesterday that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has died. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family during this difficult time.  
 
The Royal Household will be the primary source of information on mourning arrangements, and they will announce details on www.gov.uk
 
The Government is currently working with the Royal Household on how to commemorate the life of Her Majesty, and you can expect further guidance in coming days.
Business across the UK should continue to operate normally but there are some considerations you may wish to make, including:

• providing an opportunity for your staff to offer their condolences, either by providing your own book of condolence or by directing them to the online book of condolence at the Royal website;
• identifying arrangements made by Local Authorities to lay floral or memorial tributes;
• signposting staff on how to donate to one of The Queen’s patronages, with information available on the Royal website;
• identifying whether your business location is likely to be impacted by arrangements made by Local Authorities, or events planned in central London, and planning your response;
• considering any changes you might wish to make to your website and social media activities; and
• where you have flags, lowering them to half mast.

 
The best source of information is www.gov.uk  Your Local Authority will also be updating their own websites on local arrangements, including any events they may organise which might impact on the locality of your business or local travel.
 
The Royal Household will set out arrangements on Lying-in-State and the State Funeral.  Businesses are encouraged to follow updates on www.gov.uk and the Royal Website.

09-09-2022 10:10

Bay Carpets - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome Bay Carpets, a New Retailer Member from Kent.

01-09-2022 15:16

James Parfitt - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome James Parfitt, a new Fitter Member from Pembrokeshire.

11-08-2022 15:29

The Carpet and Flooring Depot - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome The Carpet and Flooring Depot, a new Retailer Member from Rochdale.

15-07-2022 14:12

A L Selly Flooring Ltd - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome A L Selly Flooring Ltd, a new Retailer Member, from Worcestershire.

28-06-2022 11:58

C Abbott Limited - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome C Abbott Limited, a new Retailer Member from London.

10-06-2022 15:18

Shannon Fairhurst - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Shannon Fairhurst, a new fitter member, from Welton in Lincolnshire.

12-05-2022 10:25

Carpet & Vinyl Showroom - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome Carpet & Vinyl Showroom, a new Retailer Member, from Birstall in West Yorkshire.

31-03-2022 14:57

Croner - Changes in April 2022

All COVID restrictions ending in England and the worrying international news have captured everybody’s attention recently. Under the circumstances, we don’t want you to miss the relevant employment law changes that could affect your business starting April 2022.

The increase to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and other statutory rates will impact businesses across the UK. Employers who fail to pay the NMW could face an employment tribunal or civil court case. They also risk damaging their reputation by being included in the Government name and shame initiative.

Read more in the NICF members area. Log in here.

29-03-2022 09:28

Neil Ferguson - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Neil Ferguson, a new Fitter Member from Cheshire.

22-03-2022 11:15

Adam Wilson - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Adam Wilson, a new fitter member from Bedfordshire.

14-03-2022 16:07

Tim Green - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Tim Green, a new fitter member from Staffordshire.

11-03-2022 11:16

Employment Law Changes - April 2022

There is now updated information in the NICF members area on Employment Law Changes from April 2022. 

Please log into the NICF members area here to read more. 

10-03-2022 11:38

Direct Carpet Supplies - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome Direct Carpet Supplies, a new Retailer Member, from Leicester.

04-03-2022 15:51

Premier Carpets - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome Premier Carpets, a new Retailer Member, from East Sussex.

04-03-2022 15:45

Scott Martin - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Scott Martin, from Hampshire.

16-02-2022 10:15

Adam Warren - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Adam Warren, a new Fitter Member from Essex.

04-02-2022 12:37

Harman Carpets & Flooring - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new retailer member, Harman Carpets & Flooring, from Goole in Yorkshire.

25-01-2022 10:49

Elliot Ross Harman - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Elliot Ross Harman from Goole in East Yorkshire.

22-12-2021 10:49

Stephen Whiting- Returning Fitter Member

The NICF would like to Welcome back Fitter Member Stephen Whiting from Hornchurch in Essex.

16-12-2021 14:15

Michael Osborne - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Michael Osborne from Bradford.

15-12-2021 15:44

Mike Rawles - New NICF Fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Mike Rawles from Poole in Dorset

15-12-2021 11:16

Ben Jackson - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Ben Jackson from Tipton in West Midlands.

15-12-2021 11:11

Bob Cherry - new Fitter member.

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter member, Bob Cherry from Glasgow.

03-12-2021 11:04

James Dykes-Brown - new Fitter member.

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter member, James Dykes-Brown from Milford Haven.

03-12-2021 11:00

James Kelly - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, James Kelly, from Ashbourne in Derbyshire.

15-11-2021 14:52

Blake Clarkson - New Trainee Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Blake Clarkson, a new trainee member, from Doncaster in South Yorkshire.

09-11-2021 11:42

Lewis Hoe - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Lewis Hoe, from Doncaster in South Yorkshire.

09-11-2021 11:39

Michael Anderson - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Michael Anderson, a new fitter member, from Leyburn in North Yorkshire.

08-11-2021 09:45

Joshua Burton - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Joshua Burton, a new fitter member, from Selby in North Yorkshire.

29-10-2021 14:36

Simple Floors - New Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome Simple Floors, a new retailer member, from Wallington in Greater London.

28-10-2021 14:27

Daniel Jones - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Master Fitter Member Daniel Jones from Thame in Oxfordshire

15-10-2021 16:54

Rick Bridge - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Rick Bridge from Lancashire.

07-10-2021 14:22

The Yelverton Carpet Company - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member, The Yelverton Carpet Company from Devon.

30-09-2021 12:20

Matt Bowles - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Master Fitter Member and Winner of the NICF Fitter of the Year Competition in LVT 2021 – Matt Bowles from Great Yarmouth in Norfolk.

 

23-09-2021 15:55

Ryan Livingstone - New Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome Ryan Livingstone a new Trainee Member from Dagenham in Essex.

15-09-2021 11:23

Daniel Wells - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Daniel Wells, a new Fitter member, from Dursley in Gloucestershire.

13-09-2021 14:18

All Aspect Flooring - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member All Aspect Flooring from New Milton in Hampshire.

26-08-2021 16:22

NICF Annual General Meeting - 10 August 2021

The NICF Annual General Meeting took place on Tuesday 10 August 2021, once again in virtual format.   

The year end accounts for 2020/2021 were approved at the meeting, as were the minutes of the 2020 AGM and the Report of the Council for 2020/2021.

We would like to welcome newly elected Council members Shaun Baston, Jason Draper and Brett Warren.

The Officers of the Association, Brian King (President), Matthew Yerrell (Vice-President) and Shane Moore (Honorary Treasurer) were all re-elected to serve the second yer of the terms of office.

The full NICF Council for 2021/2022 is:

Brian King - President
Matthew Yerrell - Vice-President
Shane Moore - Honorary Treasurer
Shaun Baston
Darren Colledge
Jasaon Draper
Rob Fitzgerald
Ian James
Dan Jones
John Raine (Stairrods Uk Ltd)
Steve Ramsden
Gary Scott (Hanson Plywood Ltd)
Mark Smurthwaite
Brett Warren
James Wilkinson

 

 

12-08-2021 13:59

Karndean Design Flooring - New patron member

The NICF would like to welcome a new patron member, Karndean Design Flooring from Evesham in Worcestershire.

09-08-2021 09:59

NICF Annual General Meeting 2021 - Nominees for Council places

The NICF Annual General Meeting is taking place on Tuesday 10 August 2021, commencing at 1.30pm and will again be online via Zoom.

There are six places available on the Council this year and we are pleased to announce the nominees are:

Shaun Baston
Jason Draper
Ian James
Steve Ramsden
Mark Smurthwaite
Brett Warren

We would like to remind any members who are going to attend the meeting but have not yet let us know (please email info@nicfltd.org.uk) that they should do so by lunchtime on Monday 9 August. We can then ensure that you are provided with any relevant paperwork for the meeting.

 

06-08-2021 15:46

Finalists for Fitter of the Year 2021 - LVT competition

The finalists for the 2021 Fitter of the Year - LVT - competition are:

Matt Bowles – Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
Dean Dickinson – Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire
Luke Johnson – Newbury, Berkshire
Daniel Jones – Thame, Oxfordshire
Ross Mcinerney – Marlow, Buckinghamshire
Mathew Parkinson – Bolton, Lancashire

Congratulations to all the finalists for reaching this stage of the competition. 

The semi-final practical trials took place on 17 and 18 June and the 12 semi-finalists had to install LVT plank to an area on a 45^o angle incorporating a curved wall, a low radiator and additional pipes without the aid of any specialist cutting tools. The standard proved to be very high which made the judging a real challenge. 

For more details about the finalists please click here.

The finals will take place in Hall C at the Harrogate Convention Centre during The Flooring Show.  Over two days, Sunday 19 and Monday 20 September, these highly skilled fitters will be showcasing their skills and knowledge in practical tests. 

The winner will be announced at 4.00pm on Monday 20 September on the competition stand in Hall C. 

Come along and support the finalists over what will be a challenging couple of days of competition.

 

06-08-2021 15:42

Sebastian Paolo - New trainee fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome a new trainee fitter member, Sebastian Paolo from Greater Manchester.

02-08-2021 15:49

Steve Wright - New fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Steve Wright from Plymouth.

13-07-2021 15:34

Adrian Barker - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Fitter Member, Adrian Barker from Greater Manchester.

 

09-07-2021 10:08

Barry Pay - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter member Barry Pay, from Stanford le Hope in Essex.

16-06-2021 09:26

Joe Lockhart - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Joe Lockhart a New Fitter Member from Catterick.

 

11-06-2021 11:21

Andrew Coomer - New fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Andrew Coomer from Wimbledon.

27-05-2021 10:35

Penthouse Carpets Ltd - New patron member

The NICF would like to welcome a new patron member, Penthouse Carpets Ltd, from Lancashire.

26-05-2021 14:49

Fitter of the Year Semi-Finalists announced!

NICF are proud to announce the Fitter of the Year LVT Semi-finalists:

Dean Baldock – Havant, Hampshire
Robert Bostock – Worsley, Greater Manchester
Matt Bowles – Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
Liam Cooper – Coalville, Leicestershire
Dean Dickinson – Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire
Keith Francis – Lancing, West Sussex
Luke Johnson – Newbury, Berkshire
Daniel Jones – Thame, Oxfordshire
Ross Mcinerney – Marlow, Buckinghamshire
Simon Newton - Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
Mathew Parkinson – Bolton, Lancashire
Sam Willis - Paignton, Devon

Congratulations to all who have made it through to this stage.

 

The semi-finals will take place on Thursday 17th and Friday 18th June 2021 at the FITA Training Centre, Loughborough.

The top 6 will then go through to the finals, Good Luck to all our semi-finalists 2021.

See all the Semi-finalists now >> https://nicfltd.org.uk/FOTY-Competition/2021-semi-finalists/

21-05-2021 12:33

Wayne Irvine - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Wayne Irvine, from Prestatyn in Wales.

 

21-05-2021 12:12

Colin Faragher - New Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Colin Faragher, from Barnoldswick in Lancashire.

06-05-2021 16:38

Forester Flooring Co - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member – Forester Flooring Co from Nottingham

05-05-2021 10:26

Adam Flint - New NICF FItter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member Adam Flint from Driffield, East Riding of Yorkshire.

29-04-2021 14:38

Darrel Emery - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Darrel Emery a new fitter member from Reading in Berkshire.

20-04-2021 11:42

Barry ONeill - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Barry O'Neill a new fitter member from Northern Ireland.

20-04-2021 11:39

Simon Grimley New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Simon Grimley New NICF Fitter Member from Polegate, East Sussex

 

 

 

14-04-2021 12:40

Paul Loughery New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Paul Loughery New NICF Fitter Member from Erskine, Scotland.

 

 

14-04-2021 12:34

Joe Palmer New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Joe Palmer New NICF Fitter Member from Portsmouth.

14-04-2021 12:29

David Entwistle New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome David Entwistle a new NICF Fitter Member, from Burnley, Lancashire.

 

14-04-2021 11:56

Nathan Keogh - Returning NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back Nathan Keogh Master Fitter Member from Sunderland, Tyne & Wear.

07-04-2021 11:35

John Arbon New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome John Arbon NICF Fitter Member from Norwich in Norfolk.

01-04-2021 12:13

Liam Bell - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Liam Bell a new fitter member from Newcastle Upon Tyne.

31-03-2021 11:27

Neil Ward - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Neil Ward as a new fitter member from Newark in Nottinghamshire.

31-03-2021 10:06

Ashley Gascoyne - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome new Fitter Member Ashley Gascoyne from Redditch in Worcestershire

30-03-2021 11:13

Castle Carpets - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member, Castle Carpets from Bishop Aukland, Countty Durham.

17-03-2021 15:28

Updated Guidance Released on Delivering Training Within the Flooring Sector

Training within our sector is limited to DfE regulated apprenticeships and qualifications only.

Following the reopening of schools and colleges on 8 March, the Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed that on‐site training can only resume for students in the following further education (FE) settings if a provider follows the operational guidance:

• Sixth form colleges
• General FE colleges
• Independent Training Providers (ITPs) ‐ defined as organisations that receive Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) formula funding for the provision of 16 to 19 education
• Designated institutions
• Adult and Community Learning Providers (ACLPs)
• Special post‐16 institutions.

Building on guidance provided by the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Build UK has advised that training within our sector must currently be limited to DfE regulated apprenticeships and qualifications.

Unfortunately, this means that privately funded face-to-face training should not be permitted at this time. This includes commercial training courses held at a training facility or on-site and delivered by commercial providers and manufacturer led training.

Based on this update, the training arm of the NICF and CFA, FITA (Flooring Industry Training Association) will remain closed for all privately and commercially funded training courses although the planned apprenticeship delivery will continue as per the guidance. Delegate and visitor safety is paramount for FITA as a training organisation and for the industry bodies that support it. It naturally has been our driving force since the beginning of the pandemic and whilst this is disappointing that commercial training cannot continue at FITA, it is clearly stated in the guidance that non-essential training in this form cannot resume at this time.

There has not been any further [specific] guidance issued about resuming face‐to‐face training in the workplace. Companies will need to determine if any training required can be undertaken remotely or is essential at this time, as they may be required to explain how they are complying with the current ‘stay at home’ restrictions.

Employers who currently have apprentices employed should also read the current apprenticeships guidance, which confirms that FE apprentices may now return to training and assessment in educational settings, and how this should be managed.

We have been advised that the next part of the government lockdown roadmap that applies to training in construction is the 17 May. CFA, NICF and FITA will naturally review the situation and any further specific guidance received leading up to this date in the firm hope that we can fully return to training in our sector. It currently seems unlikely that wider training will be permitted before the 17 May.

 

15-03-2021 14:46

Adam Gilloway - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Fitter Member, Adam Gilloway from Croydon in Surrey.

03-03-2021 12:19

GNC Contract Services - New NICF Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Patron Member, GNC Contract Services from Cheltenham in Gloucestershire.

01-03-2021 12:13

Craig Emery - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Craig Emery from Reading in Berkshire.

23-02-2021 16:14

David Coughlin - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, David Coughlin from Cambridgeshire.

23-02-2021 16:12

Keith Francis - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back Keith Francis, a Fitter Member from Sompting in West Sussex

 

22-02-2021 15:55

Simon Newton - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new fitter member, Simon Newton from Clacton on Sea in Essex.

15-02-2021 15:43

Matthew Jordan - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome Matthew Jordan a new NICF Master Fitter from Chester in Cheshire.

09-02-2021 15:04

Dan Fullerton - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member Dan Fullerton from Swinton in South Yorkshire

28-01-2021 10:30

Rhys Ivemey - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter Member, Rhys Ivemey from Pembrokeshire in Wales

27-01-2021 16:40

David Lavender - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back David Lavender as a Fitter Member from Oxfordshire.

26-01-2021 10:45

Jason Charlton - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter Member, Jason Charlton from Lymington in Hampshire

21-01-2021 12:36

Wallasey Carpets - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member, Wallasey Carpets from The Wirral in Cheshire

19-01-2021 15:50

Alternative Flooring - New NICF Patron Member

The NICF would like to welcome a new Patron Member, Alternative Flooring from Andover in Hampshire

18-12-2020 13:03

Jason Brook - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member, Jason Brook from Portsmouth in Hampshire

18-12-2020 11:20

David John Russell - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Fitter Member, David John Russell, from Doncaster in South Yorkshire.

15-12-2020 16:37

Tommy Mountain - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter member, Tommy Mountain from Lincoln

14-12-2020 11:25

Paul Garrard - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome a New Fitter Member, Paul Garrard from Horsham in West Sussex.

09-12-2020 15:46

Iain Bell - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back Fitter Member Iain Bell from Falkirk in Scotland

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16-11-2020 16:44

Steven Warren - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member, Steven Warren from Luton in Bedfordshire

16-11-2020 16:40

Allan Milford - NICF new Fitter member.

The NICF would like to welcome Allan Milford a new Fitter member from Exeter in Devon.

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13-11-2020 13:39

RH Flooring Solutions - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member R H Flooring Solutions from York in North Yorkshire

06-11-2020 10:35

Steve Fretwell - Returning NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back our Master Fitter Member - Steve Fretwell from Upton in Northamptonshire

04-11-2020 16:33

Scott Scorfield - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new fitter member, Scott Scorfield from Peterborough in Cambridgeshire.

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29-10-2020 13:46

Brett Warren - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new fitter member, Brett Warren from Luton in Bedfordshire.

29-10-2020 13:22

Connor Magee - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member Connor Magee from Ferndown in Dorset

08-10-2020 17:16

Zeke Davies - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back NICF Fitter member Zeke Davies from Neath in Wales

08-10-2020 16:58

Punchy Carpets - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member – Punchy Carpets from Hawick, Scotland

02-10-2020 18:11

Roger Baker - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Master Fitter Member – Roger Baker from Birmingham

02-10-2020 18:09

Ian Woolley - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to Welcome back, Fitter Member Ian Woolley from Liverpool.

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28-09-2020 11:13

Andrew Muddiman - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter member - Andrew Muddiman from Stockport in Cheshire.

22-09-2020 11:49

Jason Padden - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to Welcome back, Fitter Member Jason Padden from Bridlington.

21-09-2020 14:31

Andrew Patterson - Returning NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back, returning Master Fitter Member, Andrew Patterson from Fife in Scotland

17-09-2020 13:51

Wishbech & Downham Carpet Warehouse - New NICF Retailer member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member, Wisbech Carpet Warehouse & Downham Carpet Warehouse from Cambridgeshire

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17-09-2020 11:46

Anthony Morley - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would to welcome our new Fitter Member, Anthony Morley from Horley in Surrey

17-09-2020 11:43

50% OFF COURSE PRICES as FITA pilots 3 brand new courses for 2020-21!

50% OFF COURSE PRICES as FITA pilots 3 brand new courses for 2020-21!

FITA is pleased to announce that it is looking to pilot 3 brand new courses at its Loughborough Training Centre, they are:

• Wood Sanding – Advanced course including water popping, brushing and distressing
• LVT fitting Advanced course concentrating on design floors including herringbone, bending planks, stairs, motifs and inset designs
• Carpet Fitting – Design Floors – Advanced course including techniques on inset borders, motifs, double stick and much more.

FITA is offering 50% off the standard booking price meaning a saving of up to £300. These courses have all been designed for experienced floorlayers looking to incorporate advanced techniques; bookings will be taken on a first come, first served basis.

The courses will run on reduced numbers and will give us chance to evaluate the courses before they are offered to the flooring industry on a wider scale in 2020.

You can either book via the FITA website or call the FITA office on 0115 950 6836.

14-09-2020 14:59

Nikolaos Nikolaidis - New NICF Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Trainee Member Nikolaos Nikolaidis from Woking in Surry.

10-09-2020 16:34

Conor Rudge - New NICF Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Trainee Member Conor Rudge from Dover in Kent

10-09-2020 16:31

Daniel Mitchell - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter Member, Daniel Mitchell from Doncaster in South Yorkshire

10-09-2020 16:28

Direct Flooring & Beds Ltd - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer Member, Direct Flooring & Beds Ltd from Bury in Lancashire

 

07-09-2020 09:29

Lee Dewhurst - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new fitter member Lee Dewhurst from Clitheroe in Lancashire

07-09-2020 09:17

Michael Molloy - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Master Fitter Member Michael Molloy from Manchester in Lancashire.

 

07-09-2020 09:10

Iain McIntosh - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome back, returning member, Iain McIntosh from Brecon in Wales.

04-09-2020 16:58

Work opportunity for NICF members - J & I Carpets looking for fitters

J & I Carpets of Oswestry have contacted the NICF as they are looking for carpet fitters to join their team.

The company installs carpets, vinyl, LVT and wood/ laminates. Based in Oswestry but covering Shropshire, mid and north Wales, and also occasional work further afield.

Can sub contract with own vans or be taken on the books and van provided. Great rates of pay for the right candidates. Quality work both domestic and contract they have plenty of work ongoing.  Previous experience please although some training can be given by their three NICF Master fitters.

If interested please call 01691 656843 or email jandicarpets@hotmail.co.uk

21-08-2020 13:20

Jason Northey - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest NICF Fitter member, Jason Northey from Barry in Wales

20-08-2020 10:37

NICF Annual General Meeting - 12 August 2020

The NICF Annual General Meeting took place earlier today in virtual format (a first for this particular event as it usually takes place at the FITA Training Centre in Loughborough).  It was certainly good to see members attending who would not previously have been able to do so (due to distance and time resource required to attend in person), but who through the medium of Zoom have found attendance possible this year - a positive to be taken from the current situation.  

The year end accounts for 2019/2020 were approved at the meeting, as were the minutes of the 2019 AGM and the Report of the Council for 2019/2020.

We would like to welcome newly elected Council members Darren Ash, Andrew Call, Darren Colledge, Rob Fitzgerald, Dan Jones, John Raine (Stairrods Ltd), Gary Scott (Hanson Plywood Ltd) and James Wilkinson.  The term of office for Council members is three years.

Brian King was elected to the role of President; Matthew Yerrell was elected to the role of Vice-President and Shane Moore was elected as Honorary Treasurer.  The term of office for these roles is two years.

The full NICF Council for 2020/2021 is:

Brian King - President
Matthew Yerrell - Vice-President
Shane Moore - Honorary Treasurer
Darren Ash
Andrew Call
Darren Colledge
Rob Fitzgerald
Ian James
Dan Jones
John Raine (Stairrods Uk Ltd)
Steve Ramsden
Gary Scott (Hanson Plywood Ltd)
Trevor Smith
Mark Smurthwaite
James Wilkinson

Thanks go to Scott Carter-Dowding for his service on behalf of the NICF Council over many year and for serving as President for the past three.

 

12-08-2020 17:02

NICF Annual General Meeting - Nominees for Council places

The NICF Annual General Meeting is taking place on Wendesday 12 August at 1.30pm via Zoom.

There are 9 places available on the Council and we are pleased to announce the nominees, they are:

Darren Ash
Andrew Call
Darren Colledge
Rob Fitzgerald
Dan Jones
John Raine (Stairrods Ltd)
Garry Scott (Hanson Plywood Ltd)
Byron Terrett
James Wilkinson
John Wright

The nomniees have supplied résumés and these can be viewed in the member area of the NICF website.

 

We would like to remind any members who are going to attend the meeting but have not yet let us know (email info@nicfltd.org.uk) that they should do so by lunchtime on Monday 10 August. We can then ensure that you are provided with any relevant paperwork for the meeting.

 

This year we will also be electing new Officers of the Institute and the nominations for those roles are:

• President - Brian King
• Vice-President - Matthew Yerrell
• Honorary Treasurer - Shane Moore
   

07-08-2020 16:42

Richard ODriscoll - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter NICF Member Richard O'Driscoll from Selby in North Yorkshire

06-08-2020 13:02

Adam Desmier - Returning NICF Fitter Member

The NICF are pleased to welcome back, Fitter Member Adam Desmier from Elland, West Yorkshire

04-08-2020 10:23

Jason Boote - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Master Fitter member - Jason Boote from Torquay in Devon

30-07-2020 14:26

Andy Angell - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter member, Andy Angell from Swindon in Wiltshire.

28-07-2020 11:08

Dean Dickinson - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter member - Dean Dickinson from Bedford

28-07-2020 08:35

Hoods Carpet & Flooring Ltd - New NICF Retailer Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Retailer member - Hoods Carpet & Flooring Ltd from Birmingham

15-07-2020 18:10

Daniel Latimer - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter Member, Daniel Latimer from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Northumberland

15-07-2020 17:54

Lee Gormley - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Fitter member, Lee Gormley from Lanark in Scotland

15-07-2020 17:42

Craig Hollis - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome out newest Fitter member Craig Hollis from Ipswich in Suffolk

15-07-2020 17:13

Cameron Ramsden - New NICF Trainee member

The NICF would like to welcome our new Trainee Member, Cameron Ramsden from Caslteford in West Yorkshire

14-07-2020 11:04

Bradley Hughes - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter member, Bradley Hughes from Castleford in West Yorkshire

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14-07-2020 11:03

Richard Hughes - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter member, Richard Hughes from Castleford in West Yorkshire

14-07-2020 11:02

Hawaar Khan - New NICF Fitter Member

The NICF is pleased to welcome our newest fitter member, Hawaar Khan from Lancashire.  Hawaar has successfully upgraded from a Trainee Fitter Member to a Full Fitter Member on completion of his NVQ 2 .  Congratulations Hawaar.

13-07-2020 12:47

Nigel Tucker - New NICF Master Fitter member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Master Fitter member - Nigel Tucker from Redruth in Cornwall

07-07-2020 15:31

Danny Foy - New NICF Master Fitter Member

The NICF woulld like to welcome our new Master Fitter member, Danny Foy from Rochdale.

23-06-2020 14:59

Mark Andrew Brown - New NICF Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Fitter member Mark Andrew Brown from Rockferry, Birkenhead, Merseyside.

04-06-2020 13:00

Jack Mackinder - New NICF Trainee Member

The NICF would like to welcome our newest Trainee member - Jack Mackinder from Bingley in West Yorkshire

26-05-2020 10:32

James Barnes - New Fitter Member

The NICF is pleased to welcome our newest fitter member, James Barnes from The Wirral.  James has successfully upgraded from a Trainee Fitter Member to a Full Fitter Member.  Congratulations James.

13-05-2020 12:15

Daniel Johnston - New NICF Member

The NICF is pleased to welcome Daniel Johnston from Cumbria who has joined the NICF as a fitter member for the carpet, Domestic Vinyl, Resilient and LVT catagory. ​​

07-05-2020 13:44

Paul Temple - New NICF Member

The NICF is pleased to welcome Paul Temple from Enfield who has joined the NICF as a fitter member for the carpet and LVT catagory. ​​

07-05-2020 13:39

Richard Merrills - New NICF Member

The NICF is please to welcome Richard Merrills from Bridlington who has joined the NICF as a fitter member for the carpet catagory.

23-04-2020 15:16

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new Master fitter member, Gary Eastwood.

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new Master Fitter Member, Gary Eastwood from Hull.

23-04-2020 12:44

NICF statement - COVID-19

We are very conscious that the worrying situation surrounding COVID-19 is escalating on a daily basis. The main guidance we are providing to members comes from the Government’s main websites:

https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

The NHS website goes into greater detail about some of the basic precautions that we would like to re-iterate:

• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• always wash your hands when you get home or into work
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
• put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
• try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
• do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
• do not have visitors to your home, including friends and family

NICF members have access to support via Croner (Call 0844 561 8133 and quote relevant scheme number) that may be of assistance with regard to specific issues. If you have any further questions that are not answered through these routes, please do not hesitate to get in touch and we will try to assist.

For the NICF, we are also applying Government guidelines and will not be running face to face meetings or events for the immediate future. We will remain active and are currently looking at alternatives to ensure that the business of the NICF in supporting our members continues while we all navigate this pandemic. Communication is probably more important now than ever and so whilst we will maintain our basic principle of not bombarding our members with unnecessary contact, equally we will endeavour to keep you updated with any critical information. We are currently developing a blog on the NICF website that we hope will be in place over the next day or so. This will include basic information and ongoing updates; highlighting support, best practice, news of any guidelines or restrictions implemented by the Government and any wider business help or support that we learn is available.

Please be assured that we continue to work hard on your behalf.

17th March 2020

The NICF welcomes a new Retailer Member.

The NICF welcomes Evolution Flooring NE Limited, of Northumberland, as a new Retailer Member.

17th March 2020

The NICF is pleased to welcome 2 new members.

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new retail member, Trim and Tuck Carpets from London. We are also pleased to welcome Liam Muskett a new Trainee member from Blunham in Bedfordshire.

12th March 2020

The NICF welcomes new members - L Fidler and Sons, Fabio Fantauzzi

We are please to welcome two new members to the NICF.

L Fidler & Sons – a Retailer Member from Stranraer, Wigtownshire, Scotland.
Fabio Fantauzzi – a Fitter Member from Farnborough in Hampshire.

3rd March 2020

New members - Gary Sanderson and Christopher Bell

We are pleased to annouce two new members have joined the NICF. We welcome Gary Sanderson from Greater Manchester and Christopher Bell of York.

19th February 2020

The NICF welcomes a new Trainee member

The NICF welcomes Jake Ross of Lowestoft as a new Trainee Member.

 

10th February 2020

Carpet Culture in London becomes our newest Retail member

We're pleased to welcome London-based Carpet Culture Ltd as our newest Retail member. You can find their full contact details in our Directory.

30th January 2020

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new member.

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new fitter member, Brian Flinter from County Kildare, Ireland.

20th January 2020

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new Retailer member.

The NICF welcomes a new Retailer Member, Pudsey Carpet and Bed Centre.

17th December 2019

Warning for members - nuisance call

A word of caution

We have become aware that a company called Webworks Internet, with a contact number of 01325 639058, has contacted an NICF member recently stating that they were working with the NICF. 

We would like to confirm that this is incorrect and NICF is not working in partnership with this company.

6th December 2019

The NICF is pleased to welcome 2 new members.

The NICF is pleased to welcome two new Retailer members, H2H Flooring Ltd of Bradford and Skidmores Ltd of Worle, Somerset.

3rd December 2019

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new member.

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new Master Fitter Member, Gary Phesay from Knebworth, Hertfordshire.

26th November 2019

The NICF is pleased to welcome a new member.

The NICF is pleased to welcome Albion Carpets, a Retailer member from Ashton-under-Lyne.

4th November 2019

The NICF welcomes a new Fitter Member, Mark Naylor.

25th September 2018

The Full NICF News Archive

We have our full archive of previous news items available to view in date-order.

Click to view

2011 to 2024