2021 seems to have started the way 2020 left off – plenty of new challenges and continuing uncertainty.
We have little idea how the current lockdown situation will develop. As we go to press, it looks like it will get worse before it gets better. However, we will come out of it, one way or another – and when we do the new post-Brexit environment will of course still be with us. Many companies are still getting to grips with the new arrangements caused by the end of the transition period. The full effect may take time to hit because of product stockpiling in the run-up and also because of the pandemic acting as a brake on trade.
One of the areas where there seems to be the least awareness currently concerns the new regulations on the movement of workers. All sectors of the construction industry, including flooring contractors are likely to be affected by the new arrangements. As the industry picks up (hopefully) in the spring, the effects are likely to be felt even more strongly.
The new points-based immigration system means that companies can no longer employ overseas workers of their choosing. Any company planning to recruit overseas workers now needs to register as a licensed visa sponsor. You will not legally be able to hire people from outside the UK if you do not have this licence. Furthermore, in the new points-based system new employees from outside the UK will also need to meet new job, salary and language requirements.
Any prospective employee from an overseas country (whether EU or not – but excluding Ireland) needs to accrue 70 points in order to be able to work in the UK. It is not yet clear which types of flooring job, if any, have a Standard Occupational Classification code to contribute towards the total number of points required – and points in this area, along with a job offer from a sponsoring company and the ability to speak English are mandatory anyway.
Employers who already have EU citizens on their books should encourage them to apply for residency under the EU Settlement Scheme, to ensure they can continue to work for you.
These and many other aspects of Brexit are the subject of regular member updates, webinars and briefings from the CFA. Because of our contacts with Government, via organisations such as Build UK and the Construction Leadership Council, it is our role to disseminate this information to our members. This helps them to trade efficiently and profitably – and also helps them to stay on the right side of the law in an evolving regulatory environment.
The CFA logo keeps you informed and gives your customers confidence.