Twelve week grace period to offer direct financial relief
The British Woodworking Federation is to suspend membership fees for 12 weeks to support members through the COVID-19 crisis.
The move aims to offer some direct financial relief to members at a time when all businesses in the sector are facing significant challenges.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the woodworking industry, with a number of BWF members temporarily suspending operations in their workshops and factories.
The BWF understands that this is due to significant supply chain disruption, the closure of some construction sites and to protect the health and wellbeing of employees in line with guidance from Public Health England.
Helen Hewitt, CEO of the BWF, said: “Throughout this crisis the BWF has provided ongoing advice and support to members, which we know from feedback has been greatly appreciated. However, we also know we need to do more.
“In light of the highly challenging period our industry faces, the BWF Board has agreed unanimously to suspend membership fees for 12 weeks to further support members. We hope that this will ease the pressure in some way, and we will be contacting members on an individual basis over the next fortnight to let them know the next steps.
“The woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry is one built on passion, innovation, skill and adaptability. It has never been more important for us to work together for the greater good of the industry,” she said.
“Throughout this changeable period, the BWF will continue to provide its members with technical support and ongoing business guidance, and be the voice of the industry to champion the benefits of timber to the Government and grow the demand for wooden products in the long-term.”
The BWF has a dedicated COVID 19 section on its website to provide members with the most up-to-date information on business operations and continuity plans. For more information visit: https://www.bwf.org.uk/covid-19-faqs/
