Hillier’s Headlines
My light hearted take on the week gone by and the week ahead.
There’s only really one subject to talk about at the moment so I’m not going to try and stick to the usual format!
How are we all doing?
I really can’t believe we are into week seven of working at home. Has it really been that long? And where did the time go? I know I’m not getting any younger, but really, that was quick. I’ve spoken to a few people recently who have said the same.
I know it isn’t like this for everyone, there are thousands of people currently furloughed or just not working, and for them the past few weeks probably feel like an eternity. It’ll be interesting to hear what Boris has to say on Thursday reference easing of the lockdown.
Job retention scheme update
Having made the decision right from the start to furlough eligible candidates we now find ourselves in week 7 of making JRS payments. We’ve put in a claim and it’s well in to the millions so far. We continue to monitor the workforce to ensure all that can, are paid via the scheme. Hence our criteria is also being reviewed daily, as well as our cash flow requirements.
We do have a minor spanner in the works this week. With the VE day bank holiday falling on Friday, we’ll be aiming to get all contractors paid early, on Thursday evening. Money should be with them either late Thursday or early Friday. Given that the team managed to design and instigate furlough payroll from a standing start in a matter of days, this really is routine. We’ve updated all of our contractors so they know they will be able to enjoy the VE Day celebrations in whichever form they may take.
For contractors or recruitment agencies who’ve not had a great experience with JRS I’d recommend looking at our latest page here.
I’d also recommend a few other resources which you may find useful:
Overwhelmed by the feedback
The messages of thanks from our recruitment agencies and contractors continues to put a smile on our faces. We’re in the process of creating a new web page to be able to share the comments and videos with everyone, and hopefully you’ll be left smiling too. It’s hard to measure the impact of seeing these lovely comments. So, last week I got all staff together on Zoom and shared some of the videos, and no word of a lie, you could see some very shiny eyes by the end!
So from all of us at People Group, a huge thank you for your messages. They really do make a difference.
View the recent video with some of our contractor messages below:
VE Day – 75 years on
Friday 08 May marks the 75 year anniversary since Victory in Europe (VE) day. And while the plans were for big street parties right across the nation, there are still some activities taking place that you can join in with. Whatever you do, please join us in observing the two minutes silence at 11am as we honour the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation.
Other things you can do:
- Support the Royal British Legion with their Tommy in the window campaign.
- Get the kids to make some bunting to put up either in the windows or front garden.
- Get involved with the UK-wide singalong to Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’ at 9pm.
- A toast to the Heroes of World War Two. Take part by raising a glass, cheering and clapping on your doorsteps.
Staying up-to-date
If you want to keep fully up-to-date with everything going on at People Group I’d urge you to sign up for our news and insights on our website. We’ve generally got a fair bit to say, and particularly with recent events around JRS and Furlough there’s been a bit more than usual.
To stay informed about topical issues and industry news you can sign up to our news updates. If you’re looking for something a bit meatier, sign up for our insights, where you’ll get exactly that, insightful articles to help move your business forward.
Either way, check the website regularly and stay informed.
That’s all for this week. Stay safe and well and don't forget VE Day on Friday.