Information for supply teachers & contractors - coronavirus

We have put together some key information for supply teachers who may be worried about their financial situation during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Firstly we would recommend that you check the governments website for more information on Statutory Sick Pay and Universal Credit – you can do so here.

Will my agency or umbrella company furlough me?

We do understand that some agencies/umbrella companies have chosen not to furlough supply teachers and recognise how frustrating this decision is, we would recommend that you get in touch with your agency/umbrella company to confirm the possibility of your agency offering furlough.

As far as we understand the legislation surrounding furlough, all agencies and umbrella companies can furlough candidates. However there is no obligation for them to do so. It is up to individual agencies and umbrella companies to make the decision to furlough candidates or not.

We do think that most supply staff are eligible to claim Universal Credit or New Style Jobseekers Allowance. Below you can find an online calculator which includes details on how to claim both Universal Credit and New Style Jobseekers Allowance. We also think that it is important that you contact your local authority as most have set up discretionary hardship funds, but funds are limited. You can also claim Council Tax Support which can reduce your annual Council Tax Bill.  

Benefits 

It is essential that you are fully aware of your eligibility for state benefits; we would strongly recommend that you use either the Entitled to benefits calculator or the Turn2Us version.

Both are free to use and you can print or save your results.  

You can apply for Universal Credit here.

Additional support

You may be able to receive further assistance from our helpline or your union.

• Education Support’s confidential grants service is here to help. Please visit our grants page to find out more and apply.  
• Members of the NEU  can request a Trust Fund application form by contacting the Trust Fund administrator on 020 7782 1573 or emailing the Trust Fund at trustfund@neu.org.uk. 
• Members of NASUWT can contact their benevolent fund on 0121 453 6150, or email legalandcasework@mail.nasuwt.org.uk.
• Members of Unison can contact their benevolent fund on  020 7121 5620 or email thereforyou@unison.co.uk
• Government guidance on Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

Our helpline

We do appreciate that you may be experiencing a high level of stress and anxiety at the moment and that the uncertainty of your circumstances could be making this worse. Our counselling team can help with any issue, personal or professional, to get you back on track. If you would like to discuss anything  please feel free to contact our confidential helpline 24/7 on 08000 562 561.