The Business Travel Association is launching BTA Cares, an
initiative designed to support members of the business travel community who
have been affected by furloughs or redundancies as a result of the Covid-19
pandemic.
The association says the initiative will help upskill,
market and retain members of the business travel community to create employees who
are attractive to both the travel industry and wider sectors. It will give
employers a place to point those who have been made redundant for them to
receive practical and informative advice, and to help former employees seek new
roles, according to the BTA.
The programme will see the BTA partner with complementary
associations and companies across the travel management community.
Launching on 3 August, BTA Cares will be “an ongoing and
constantly updated scheme” offering a schedule of activities such as webinars,
master classes and social events. It will include bespoke advice and coaching
sessions from industry leaders to help workers strengthen their CV and job
search techniques, along with mental health sessions, yoga and informal
discussion groups.
August is also being dedicated as BTA Cares Month, with a
schedule of events including:
- A first-hand account and analysis of behaviours
and mindset conducted by Clarity CEO Pat McDonagh and behavioural psychologist
Dr Lucy Rattrie
- A webinar on how to look for career opportunities
in other industries facilitated by People’s 1st and Women in Travel
- And a session focusing on bespoke career advice,
utilising LinkedIn and interview tips hosted by Lynne Griffiths, CEO of Sirius
Executive Search.
BTA chief executive Clive Wratten said: “The BTA Cares
programme will throw its arms around business travel professionals when they
need it the most. As we navigate a sustainable way out of the Covid-19 crisis,
this initiative is the first step towards building a stronger community and
extending a helping hand.”