A Message from CFA's President

Source – Garry Bateman, CFA Pesident

Dear CFA Members

I am writing this towards the end of the second week that has rocked our world with many of the things we have taken for granted being turned upside down.
 
“Recent” is very much a relative term currently, which can only be counted in hours rather than days. But the “recent” lack of clarity for the construction industry has been unfortunate. In my opinion, there has been a basic lack of understanding of what can practically be achieved on sites in terms of social distancing. Much of the contract flooring industry has led the way in keeping their employees safe and I commend you for this.
 
Yesterday evening (26th March) the Government added to the Furlough payment for employed workers, with equal support for the self-employed, which of course makes up so much of the workforce in our supply chain. I am hoping that this removes any further financial barriers that might otherwise have stopped those that need to be at home, to stay safe.
 

The CFA has been continuously working to keep you informed of the latest help available to our members. If you haven’t already done so, I would strongly recommend you have a look at the CFA’s blog to keep up to date on relevant industry news and support www.cfa.org.uk/blog. CEO Richard Catt and the team are designing other resources to help you through this time and they will be launched through the blog and our other normal communication channels. It is at times like these, however uncertain, that the value of CFA membership truly comes into real focus, ensuring you have all the necessary business helplines and quick access to support that might just make the difference.
 
We have just launched a new template, our “Business Suspension Plan”. This has been designed to help you either scale back your business or stop working for a short period of time. The document is outlined on the blog and is available through the members area of the CFA website, where there are  many other useful templates such as a Furlough letter to employees.
 
We are also a community that can work together through these difficult times. Whilst nobody knows the timescale of this pandemic, it is good to aim to key events in the future to look to regroup and refocus. Such an event is the CFA Autumn Ball, that we are still optimistically scheduling for the 10 Oct 2020, that could become a focal point for the industry and the CFA. A time where we can all hopefully re-establish those vital relationship that make our industry special.
 
Training and excellence have been the theme of my Presidency and I look forward to the day when we will be able to return with purpose and new perspective to such matters. Communication is of course paramount now, so do stay in touch and ensure that now, more than ever, you receive benefit and value from your membership. There is so much on offer, you only have to ask.
 
Richard can be contacted via richard@cfa.org.uk and if you have any messages for me, he will pass them on.
 
From all at the CFA, above all else stay safe and well.
 
Garry
 
Garry Bateman
Head of Technical Sales and Support - Forbo Flooring UK Ltd
CFA President