We’re all in this together!
March 2020

Once again this Thursday, we will be acknowledging many incredible real-life heroes with rapturous applause ringing around neighbourhoods for the incredible work of our NHS. Their inspirational bravery has been a key factor in 750,000 + NHS Volunteer Responders coming forward to support those who are highly vulnerable to Coronavirus - so many in fact that the process was temporarily paused on 29 March to process applications.

So, what is construction doing. Businesses can support in a variety of ways. Earlier today, CAB joined sister trade bodies within the Construction Products Association and amongst the heavy discussions about economics, supporting members with updates it was warming to hear some remarkable stories about sector organisations turning production lines to producing sanitiser and providing support vehicles and PPE. A key theme of the meeting was the need for greater clarification on so many issues surrounding the pandemic. Today’s letter from the Secretary of State to the UK Construction Sector is a step towards this.

CAB for its part will be providing further webinars and updates for members on topics as diverse as crisis communications, Contractual Awareness- Practical Steps, Job Retention Scheme (Croner) and Construction economic update (Dr Noble Francis). Members also have access to the 24/7 Croner advice line.

The government has also launched its Business Support website to help businesses find the right support, advice and information to help with the impact of COVID-19.

While we hope all readers and their families stay safe and well, further relevant information can be found at:

• COVID-19: guidance for employees, employers and businesses
• Specific information for businesses and employers in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales is available
• Remediation and COVID-19: Building Safety update
• Guidance on the closure of all retailers that sell non-essential goods and other non-essential premises
• Companies to receive a 3 month extension period to file accounts during COVID-19
• Forms and guidance on what manufacturers need to do to place test kits on the market
• Closing certain businesses and venues – compliance
•  Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can't do