The UK Government and Prince of
Wales have urged students and furloughed workers
to apply for seasonal farm work.
As part of efforts to support British farmers and growers
to recruit workers throughout the harvest period, the UK
Government launched the Pick for
Britain website in partnership with industry to
help match up available opportunities with local
jobseekers.
Scotland Secretary said:
Many of Scotland’s farms, in particular our soft fruit
growers, rely on seasonal labour. As >we near peak
harvest time I urge jobseekers to sign up for this
crucial work at the Pick for >Britain website or the
GOV.UK Find a job platform.
I am in no doubt British workers and students will seize
the opportunity to feed the UK >and help the economy
in these most challenging of times. Together, the UK
Government, >industry and workers will save the
Scottish strawberry and our other delicious produce.
The UK Government has already confirmed that those who have
been furloughed from their jobs due to the coronavirus and
who are contractually allowed to work for another employer
can take on this seasonal work while continuing to receive
80% of their salary from the government.
Interested parties should continue to check the Pick for
Britain website regularly as it will continue to be updated
with new opportunities as the demand for fruit and
vegetable pickers grows over the coming months.
British workers will continue to have the opportunity to
make some extra money and help to feed the nation right up
until the autumn months.
Industry best practice guidance is available for growers to
help ensure workers are safe and protected in their roles
during the pandemic.
