FAQs for SkillsPledge Programme

Members receive formal recognition for their commitment to employee development that enhances their credibility with stakeholders. They also get a personalised badge and certificate, and are listed in the Register of Members.

plications are assessed against eight benchmark areas that evaluate your organisation’s approach to professional development. These benchmarks cover the key areas required to embed a culture of learning within the workplace:

B1. Organisational Structure

B2. Documented Policies and Procedures
B3. Performance and Feedback Systems

B4. Strategic Integration

B5. Resourcing

B6. Technological Integration

B7. Support Mechanisms

B8. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI)

CPD Endorsed sets a few benchmarks mentioned in the SkillsPledge Programme Framework against which your application will be evaluated. For each membership level, the qualifying criteria are different but the minimum criteria against those benchmarks is, at least satisfactory level against all six benchmarks, along with good or excellent in at least 2 areas.

The membership level (Silver, Gold, or Platinum) is determined by submitted against the benchmarks.

Organisations of all sizes and sectors are eligible to apply for the SkillsPledge Programme, provided they demonstrate a commitment to the professional development of their workforce. This includes businesses, non-profit organisations, educational institutions, and public sector entities. Applicants must be legally registered and able to provide relevant documentation to support their application, including evidence of current employee development practices and policies.

To qualify for membership, organisations must achieve at least a Satisfactory rating in six of the eight benchmarks, and a Good or Excellent rating in the remaining two, as outlined in the qualifying criteria.

• A certificate of incorporation or registration clearly showing the name of the organisation
• Organisation Logo
• Self-Evaluation
• Supporting evidence for meeting benchmarks

The employee survey is conducted using a standardised form provided by CPD Endorsed following the submission of the application form. Employers are required to distribute this form internally, ensuring that it is completed by at least 25% of their workforce or a minimum of 10 employees, whichever is greater.

The review process typically takes 5-7 working days. Delays may occur if information is incomplete, responses from employees are delayed, or there is a high volume of applications. You will be notified via email if any delays arise.

The membership level is determined based on the extent of your organisation’s commitment to employee professional development, as demonstrated through the submission of relevant supporting evidence against the eight benchmarks. Depending on the strength and comprehensiveness of the evidence, your organisation may be awarded Silver, Gold, or Platinum membership, with each higher level requiring more comprehensive evidence of excellence in professional development practices.

If you believe the awarded level does not reflect your organisation’s commitment and evidence, you may request a reassessment by contacting us within 14 days, providing a justification and any additional documentation.

Members receive digital badges that can be used on websites, email signatures, and marketing materials. You may also reference your membership status in recruitment materials, tender submissions, and other business communications to showcase your commitment to employee professional development.

Yes. If your organisation demonstrates enhanced commitment to employee professional development or meets additional benchmarks, you may apply for a membership level upgrade at any point during the current term.

This will require submitting a new application form along with updated supporting evidence for reassessment. Please note that the standard application fee will apply, as the reassessment follows the same rigorous process as the initial review.

If the upgrade is not approved, your existing membership level and status will remain valid until the end of your current term.

Please inform CPD Endorsed if significant changes occur (e.g., restructuring, mergers, acquisitions). A reassessment may be required to maintain your membership status.

Significant organisational changes such as mergers or acquisitions must be reported to CPD Endorsed. Each application is assessed based on the evidence of a single organisation. If your organisation has merged with or acquired another, your existing membership may require reassessment to ensure the benchmarks still accurately reflect the new structure. In some cases, a new application may be needed. Please contact support for tailored guidance on how to proceed.

The standard annual renewal fee for membership in SkillsPledge Programme is £499. However, a 10% discount is available if you renew before your membership expiry date, reducing the fee to £449. This fee covers administrative costs and extends your membership for an additional 12 months.

No, the application fee is non-refundable, as it covers administrative costs and assessment services regardless of the outcome.

You will receive feedback and may submit your revisions to the application twice without incurring an additional fee. After two unsuccessful attempts, the recognition fee must be paid again to initiate a new review cycle.

Yes. The SkillsPledge Programme is open to employers worldwide, provided that all required   documentation is submitted in English or accompanied by certified translations.

Yes. The programme recognises commitment to staff development regardless of organisational size. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are welcome to apply as long as they meet the benchmark requirements.