ESF Information Memo 01/22 - Covid-19

Dear Project Promoter,

I would like to begin by wishing you all a happy and healthy 2022!

Unfortunately, the year has not begun as we would have hoped in that COVID-19 appears to be as prevalent as ever. For most of you I assume this will mean a return to some form of blended delivery which, although not ideal, does provide some support for participants in these challenging times.

Regrettably, the COVID-19 financial support that was available throughout 2020-21 is no longer an option. In addition, DfE does not have the budget to nationalise any ESF spend. The ESF element of all project expenditure will therefore be re-claimed from the European Commission as usual.

It is therefore imperative that only time spent on ESF related work is claimed and that a full audit trail exists to support this time. This applies to everyone on your Annex A including ‘in-kind’ staff and volunteers.

If a post is not covered due to sickness or other absence it must be declared.

We are working in very challenging and difficult times. The pandemic has gone on much longer than we first expected - let’s hope the end is in sight.

If you have any queries regarding this memo or its consequences please feel free to contact me.

Stay safe.

[signed]

Annie McGowan
Head of ESF Project Delivery Branch