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Condition Improvement Fund (CIF)

Every year, eligible academies, sixth-form colleges, and voluntary-aided (VA) schools have the chance to apply for capital funding through the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF). The Department for Education (DfE) gives priority to schools with significant structural needs, focusing on keeping educational buildings safe and in good working order. This involves funding projects that address health and safety issues, ensure building compliance, and tackle structures in poor condition.

For further information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/condition-improvement-fund

Accessibility & Building Compliance

Improving accessibility and ensuring building compliance are common objectives for projects supported by the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF). Projects involving the installation of access ramps or steps typically require approval from a building control office and must comply with Part M and K of the Building Regulations.

Compliant ramps and steps, when applicable, should incorporate the following features:

Yellow Tread Strips: These safety features help individuals with impaired vision identify the system's edge and any changes in level.
900mm High Infill Handrail: Designed to discourage climbing or accidental falls through gaps, this product is frequently chosen for use in schools and other public structures.
100mm High Rail: Handrails measuring 1100mm in height can be attached to any level section, enhancing safety.
Mesh Platform: The mesh platform efficiently channels water through, preventing surface puddling and potential freezing.
Trombone Ends: These are added to the ends of a Rapid Ramp to prevent clothes from snagging.
Telescopic Legs: Thanks to their adjustable design, the legs are customizable to suit various threshold heights.
Ramps must achieve a minimum width of 1500mm and should aim to achieve a minimum compliant gradient of 1:15, with 1:20 also being a frequently specified option.

We offer solutions for both permanent and temporary requirements to align with diverse project specifications.

Request A Quick Quotation

Quotations can be returned within 24hrs if there is clear information given, including project address, drawings, photos and contact details.

Previous Success Stories

Oughtibridge Primary School

Requirement: We were assigned the task of replacing the deteriorating ramp leading to the modular building with a corrosion-resistant system capable of enduring various weather conditions. Additionally, we upgraded the current steep steps with a fully modular step system.

Our steel modular systems are fully galvanised to guarantee strong rust protection.

Wincanton Primary School

Requirement: Upgrading an aging wooden ramp with a compliant Rapid Ramp System.

This system needed to possess the necessary strength to endure impacts from electrically operated wheelchairs, provide support for users in the event of a fall, and feature handrails that met the specifications outlined in BS 6180:2011. Our ramp successfully meets all of these requirements.