Updated 9 November 2020
Furlough (Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme) was introduced back in March of this year to prevent mass redundancies by allowing those that cannot do their jobs, either because their normal workplace is closed or there is no longer work available for them, to have their wages subsidised.
The scheme was due to end October 31st but has now been extended until the end of March 2021, with review in January 2021.
Can furloughed employees engage in training?
Yes. Under the Government guidance for furlough, it does state that “furloughed employees can engage in training, as long as, in undertaking the training the employee does not provide services to, or generate revenue for their organisation.” So as long as the training isn’t directly making the business money, it is allowed.
What happens to the furloughed wage?
As long as the team member would be earning at least the national minimum wage through the 80% furlough payment then it shouldn’t affect the furloughed wage. (see more on gov.uk)
Should I send my employees on training during their furlough?
Yes! Government guidelines state that employees ‘must be able to undertake any training [their company] require while on furlough’ so training is in essence, encouraged.
It can be in fact a great opportunity to upskill your workforce and ensure certificates are up to date prior to employees returning to work.
What other benefits are there to training whilst on furlough?
Providing training for employees whilst they are on furlough means the pressure of their everyday workload are not there. They can enhance their skills and professional development without normal distractions.
Training can help employees feel connected to their team and feel motivated to keep moving forward despite their current situations.
Training can also be a way for employers to show their employees that their development is a top priority, in turn creating a sense of value and worth within their roles.
What training courses are available at SkillBase First Aid?
Physical First Aid
We provide a wide range of HSE compliant First Aid courses including, First Aid at Work, Emergency First Aid, Essential Life Support and Requalifications. We also provide instructor training for organisations and individuals wanting to learn how to teach life-saving skills.
Mental Health Training
We provide a wide range of mental health training with our bespoke courses and the full suite of Adult Mental Health First Aid (MHFA England) training. These can be delivered both face-to-face and online.
More on Mental Health Training for employees during Covid-19
With 1 in 5 employees experiencing moderate to high levels of stress before the pandemic, it is more crucial now than ever to look at how you can support, educate and empower your employees with training such as Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training is designed to reduce stigma and teach practical skills that can be used every day in the workplace. It teaches people how to spot the signs and symptoms of mental ill-health and provide help on a first aid basis.
Here at SkillBase First Aid we provide Mental Health First Aid courses available at our training centre in Leicester, as an online course or we can come to you wherever you are in England!
We also have a dedicated Mental Health Training Manager to consult with you and your organisation on strategy, implementing MHFA and all wellbeing related policies.
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