The eagerly awaited application portal for Workers Affected by the Unrest (WABU) has been opened.
This scheme was created to provide financial relief for those vulnerable employees that faced a loss of income because of the recent unrest faced in KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng due to their employer’s closing down. Only businesses in KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng are eligible to apply.
According to the Department of Labour, “The relief will be paid at a flat rate of R3,500.00 to ensure that the UIF envelope is stretched to cover all affected workers. The benefit is de-linked from the UIF’s normal benefits, therefore the normal rule that for every 4 (four) days worked, the employee accumulates a one-day credit, and the maximum credit days’ payable is 365 for every 4 (four) years, does not apply. This will enable workers who have no credits to receive financial support whilst their workplaces are in the process of rebuilding or reopening.” These funds will be paid directly into the employee’s bank accounts.
According to the recently published Directive employers are required to apply on behalf of their affected workers, and they will have to meet the following conditions:
- Employer will have to register or be registered with the Unemployment Insurance Fund.
- Employer’s closure must be directly linked to the destruction, damage or looting of its workplace.
- Employer must provide details of the destruction, closure, or damage to, or looting of, its workplace and submit documentary proof of a report to the South African Police Services, with proof that a case has been opened by providing a case number, and, if insured, proof of submission and acknowledgement of receipt of the insurance claim.
- Employer must confirm in writing or electronically that – he/she accepts the terms of the Scheme and any procedure document issued by Unemployment Insurance Fund, and
- The Employer must submit any other information that the Minister or UIF Commissioner may require to assess the eligibility of the claim.
This scheme will be reviewed every 2 weeks by the Minister and on the advice of the UIF Commissioner and terminated on notice in the Gazette.
If you need help with any claims please contact us on [email protected].