Furloughed workers helping tackle coronavirus

At the beginning of the pandemic, the government launched the Industry Partnering Voluntary Scheme to utilise the skills of people who could no longer do their normal jobs.

The project has seen more than 100 people matched to short-term voluntary roles in government, ranging from analytical and digital projects to work focused on the frontline response to the virus.

"I am pleased to see so many people get involved in this important scheme which supports the national effort in maintaining public services during the COVID-19 crisis," said the government’s chief people officer, Rupert McNeil. 

"I thank everyone who has been involved from the businesses, government departments, civil service HR colleagues, and particularly the volunteers themselves, who are applying their transferable skills for the greater public good."

According to the government, volunteers worked with a wide range of departments and public sector organisations, giving them the experience of working within government and giving the government the benefit of their skills and business knowledge.

Companies whose employees took part in the project include: Harvey Nichols, British Airways, Wincanton, Eastern Airways, Easyjet, DFS, Gobeyond Partners, Hays, Heathrow Airport, Marstons, Moto Hospitality Ltd, Superdrug, TUI, the British Council, the Football Association and David Lloyd Leisure.

While all of the volunteers gave as many hours as they were able to, they continued to be paid their agreed salary or furlough rate from their usual employer.