Chapter 3 - Interaction with existing rights to training
1. The introduction of the right to request time to train will complement other rights in relation to training, most notably for 16 to 18 year olds and for Union Learning Representatives. Those rights will not be affected by the introduction of the right to request time to train.
Union Learning Representatives
2. The network of 1500 union learning representatives will have an important role to play in supporting employees to make the most of their new right to request time to train. Union learning representatives, trained with the support of Scottish Government funds, are making a real difference to the lives of working people in all areas of the country - helping them to learn new skills and update existing ones.
3. In 2003, Union Learning Representatives were given statutory rights to time off - with pay - to train and carry out the following duties -
a. Analysing learning or training needs
b. Providing information and advice about learning or training matters
c. Arranging learning or training
d. Promoting the value of learning or training
e. Consulting the employer about carrying out these activities and
f. Preparing to carry out any of the above activities.
4. These rights will not be affected by the introduction of the right to request time to train. Where they meet the eligibility criteria described in Chapter 2, Union Learning Representatives will be covered by the right to request time to train, and will be able to submit requests for time to train that will help them to become more effective and productive at work and that will help their employer to improve productivity and business performance.
Young people
5. To ensure that all young people have the best possible start to their working lives, young people aged 16 or 17 (and some 18 year olds) who are not in full-time education, who are not qualified to level 2, and who are seeking paid time off work to study or train for relevant qualifications, have a right to paid time off to train. The right is particularly important for those young people who do not realise their full potential at school.
6. Under the right to paid time off, young people can undertake study or training in the workplace, in a college with an approved training provider, or through open or distance learning. They can take whatever amount of time is reasonable in their particular circumstances, taking into account the requirements of the course or training as well as the circumstances of the employer's business, and the effect of the right to request time to train on the running of that business.
7. Young people exercising the right are entitled to receive payment for their time off at the appropriate hourly rate.