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Using SAF and other forms of e-learning during the coronavirus crisis

It has been over two weeks now since the Government closed motor retailers and auction houses and we expect these measures to extend beyond the three week period initially set out. As a result it might be the case that your business has made use of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and furloughed your staff to ensure they continue to receive wages.

Of course we understand that many of your senior staff will be planning and considering how to recover from the crisis.  Many will also be dedicating time to helping industry partners and colleagues.  But we also know that some firms are thinking about ways to ensure their furloughed staff continue to learn at home, in order to keep their workforce productive and minimise training requirements once doors reopen.  

Government guidance allows furloughed workers to engage in training at the request of their employer as long as they receive the National Minimum Wage (NMW) - even if 80% of their wages is lower than NMW.   Therefore your business can ask furloughed staff to complete the SAF Expert test which is free and accessible online.  The same goes for the higher level-3 SAF Advanced training material and use of the accompanying app.  There are no doubt likely to be many other online courses and training that businesses can ask their staff to take if they are able to.   From a furloughed individual’s perspective the time at home provides a good opportunity to make use of e-learning and develop their knowledge and skills if they are in a position to do so.

We felt it was important to clarify this, particularly since we have seen mixed messages on the topic in the media and from some of those currently signed up to take SAF Expert.