The government has published new guidance which provides an update on furlough for training providers and an indication that further news about supplier relief support is on its way. The guidance states ‘Where a provider receives Adult Education Budget (AEB), or apprenticeship funding, as part of a direct contract for services with ESFA, and is at risk financially, they may be eligible for support (subject to meeting additional criteria) as part of DfE’s response to the Cabinet Office’s Procurement Policy Note 02/20. Support provided through that mechanism would count as public funding for the purposes of conditions covering the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. Further guidance on the operation of any supplier relief scheme for providers funded under a contract for services with ESFA will be published when available. Providers should email ESFA.PPN220Queries@education.gov.uk to register their interest in the scheme.’ The news follows a lot of lobbying on behalf of the FE sector, including a letter, supported by SCTP, from the National LEP Network to the Education Secretary outlining concerns in this area. Comment on the news can be read here.
