SELECT delivers vital help
We’re here to offer support and guidance throughout the coronavirus crisis
Service not affected, with ongoing information and guidance offered
Online updates set up as association lobbies for cashflow and jobs
Digital technical updates will replace cancelled Toolbox Talk events
SELECT will continue to offer essential help and guidance to Members throughout the coronavirus outbreak, delivering regular updates and information and lobbying the Scottish Government to protect contractors’ livelihoods. The Walled Garden shut on Wednesday 25 March, with all staff now working from home. In addition, all technical assessments, training courses, drop-in sessions, Member visits and Branch Updates have been suspended, with Toolbox Talks 2020 cancelled.
However, SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson insisted SELECT would continue to offer the best possible service and do everything to help Members through this difficult time. He said: “Although SELECT HQ is now shut, we will continue to offer the same level of support and guidance to Members, as well as lobbying hard behind the scenes to help with cashflow and protect jobs.
“One of the most important things we can do is provide information and guidance, and that’s what we’ll continue to do. Our main switchboard will still be able to deal with all calls and Members should continue to contact us as usual.”
A dedicated COVID-19 section has been created on our website, select.org.uk, that will feature advice, helpful links, and daily updates throughout the crisis. We will also be issuing regular updates on our social media channels.
This year’s Toolbox Talks in May and June have been cancelled, with the scheduled presentations on EV charging and EICR coding to be made available online later. The President’s Cup golf day in May has also been cancelled. Stationery orders have been suspended until further notice.
Anyone booked on a SELECT course will have the option of a full refund if they request it. Please speak to the Training team on 0131 445 5577 for details.
The operators of our SELECTcerts scheme, Computer Scene, have also adopted a work from home policy, with the best form of support contact via email at select@csnet.co.uk
Alan added: “We have taken these measures in line with government directives, with the sole priority of keeping staff and Members safe. “Our Member Representatives and Technical Advisers will be available as usual, our Technical Helpline is still operational, and the Employment Affairs team is on hand to answer queries at this unprecedented time.”
BESA welcomes tax reforms delay
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) was among the construction bodies who welcomed the UK Government’s decision to delay the start date for IR35. In response to the ongoing spread of coronavirus, the government announced that the new off-payroll tax reforms, which were due to be extended to medium and large businesses in the private sector in April 2020, will now be deferred until 6 April 2021 to help businesses and individuals.
Paula Samuels, BESA Head of Employment Affairs, said: “This is a welcome reprieve for our members, many of whom are already suffering the effects from the financial and economic fall-out of coronavirus.”
Further advice
As well as our legal helpline, further support is now available for Members who are concerned about legal and contractual issues. Put together in conjunction with a number of industry experts, the service involves an initial consultation which is free for all Members up to 20 minutes. Assistance will cover the following issues:
Delays in the completion of ongoing contracts
Cancellation of projects
Difficulties in making or receiving payments
Issues with the supply and delivery of goods
Suspension of contracts
Formal extension of time and loss and expense notices.
All enquiries should be directed to Len Bunton on 07769 670 089 or 01786 880 751, or by email at len@buntonconsulting.co.uk. Please copy any email communications to yvonne.wilson@select.org.uk so we can track Member issues.
HELPLINES
Technical Advice Helpline: 0131 445 5577 or email technicalhelp@select.org.uk
Health & Safety Helpline (BSG): 0300 304 9099
Employment Advice Helpline: 0131 445 9216
Legal Helpline (MacRoberts): 0141 303 1111
Commercial Support (Len Bunton): 07769 670 089
Main switchboard: 0131 445 5577 or email admin@select.org.uk
