TPS launches skills retention scheme

As part of its continuing commitment to developing transport planning skills TPS is expanding its current approach for furloughed transport planners to include those who may be made redundant as the furlough scheme comes to an end.  While furloughed trainees have been able to continue their professional development, this is in danger of being interrupted if they cease to be employed.

From now on, TPS members who find themselves in this position will be able to contact TPS and the Skills Team will work to find them a trained mentor (unless their existing mentor will continue voluntarily) and give them full support while they are unemployed.  This includes first, interim and final reviews, and access to advice from TPS. Further details of the scheme can be found here.

Keith Buchan, TPS Skills Director, said:

“We have worked with the PDS Managers to develop this scheme and will continue to look for new ways to support our trainees as much as possible in these difficult times.  Of course we hope that redundancies will be minimised, but our members can be reassured that we have plans in place to support them in that eventuality.

The benefits for trainees of the retention scheme are clear. Not only will they be able to continue to progress their professional development and work towards Incorporated Transport Planner (IncTP), they will be able to demonstrate to prospective employers their commitment and motivation to pursue a career in transport planning and hopefully make an easier and speedier transfer back into paid employment.”