NICVA is here for you but at present we have a number of staff on furlough leave. Whilst we're open, we are operating a reduced service and our Reception (028 9087 7777) opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am – 12noon and 2pm – 4pm. You can also get in touch with us via the support request form or email our team. Please do also check for updates and new information via the COVID-19 Information Hub
Employment and HR (COVID19)
Distilled and relevant guidance for voluntary and community organisations managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We will endeavour to keep our information on HR and Employment up to date during this time however we have provided links below to the key and authoritative sources of information, such as the Government and other organisations on the impact of the Coronavirus:
- Government website - Business Support information
- NIBusinessinfo website - NI Business Support information
- HMRC website - Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and furlough
- Public Health Agency website - Coronavirus information for specific workplaces
Employer guidance on a range of matters, including dealing with the impact of coronavirus is available on the Labour Relations Agency Website:
NICVA's articles on various employment matters arising from the impact of Coronavirus are below. These articles are intended as guidance only. All government guidance should be followed at all times. HMRC guidance on the job retention scheme is being regularly updated so we recommend that employers review this at regular intervals to keep as up to date as possible with the most recent guidance available.
Updates
LRA Supporting mental health in the workplace webinar resources
On 27 May The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) delivered their first online webinar as part of NICVA's webinar series.
Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme portal now available
The Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme was one of the first support measures announced by the Government and the HMRC online claims portal is now live.
Equality Commission allows flexibility for annual monitoring returns
Due to the current disruptions resulting from the impact of COVID19 on our workplaces and working practices, the Equality Commission is asking that employers submit the annual monitoring return when it is practicable to do so.
Wellbeing of staff and volunteers
The wellbeing of staff and volunteers is something that needs our attention more than ever, during this time of uncertainty and challenge. We want to promote and support the wellbeing of our staff and volunteers and here are some links to help you.
NI legislation amended allowing carry over of annual leave
An amendment to Working Time Regulations came into force in Northern Ireland on 24 April 2020 to allow for annual leave (up to 4 weeks) not taken as a result of coronavirus, to be carried over into the next two leave years.
Government responds to NICVA calls for flexibility to furlough staff
The Department for Communities has responded positively to NICVA's calls for flexibility to allow sector organisations to furlough staff where posts are part-funded
HR Update Covid19 - HMRC Claims Portal Launched for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
The Government launched the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) portal on 20 April 2020 and expects that payments will be made within six working days.
HR Update Covid19 - Confirming furlough status with your employees
On 4 April 2020 HMRC published updated guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, confirming that to be eligible for the grant, employers must provide written confirmation of furlough status to employees.
HR Update - Covid19 - Emergency Volunteering Leave
The Coronavirus Act 2020 introduces a measure known as Emergency Volunteering Leave to assist the Health and Social Care system in response to the outbreak of coronavirus.
HR Update Covid19 - HMRC detailed guidance and LRA template letter for furloughed workers
On 26 March 2020 HMRC published helpful and detailed guidance about claiming wages through their Job Retention Scheme and the Labour Relations Agency has developed a template letter for employers to use for furloughed workers.
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