The labor market is changing rapidly. Automation, digitalization, and sustainability require employees to continuously develop their skills. Retraining plays a crucial role in this, and collective labor agreements and sectoral initiatives often drive these opportunities. In this blog post, we delve into the agreements on training budgets and sectoral initiatives such as O&O funds and how you can benefit from them.
Training budgets in collective labor agreements: what do they mean for you?
Many collective bargaining agreements include provisions for training budgets. These are allowances that employees can use for training, courses, or even complete retraining programs. Consider, for example:
- Personal development budget (POB): An annual allowance that allows you to choose your own course or training program. This is often specifically stated in the collective labor agreement.
- Obligations for employers: Some collective labor agreements require employers to reserve a certain percentage of the salary for training.
These regulations are designed to help you future-proof your career. It's wise to check with your HR department or your collective labor agreement to see what training opportunities are available.
Sectoral initiatives: the power of R&D funds
Training and Development Funds (O&O funds) are financed by employer and employee organizations in a specific sector. They offer financial support and practical tools for training and retraining. Some examples:
- Courses and training: Courses are often offered at a reduced rate or even for free.
- Work-to-work guidance: If your position disappears, an O&O fund sometimes offers programs to guide you to another job.
- Pilot projects and innovation: In some sectors, innovative training programs are being established through R&D funds. Consider technical training for the energy transition.
Check the website of your sectoral R&D fund for specific options.
Getting started with retraining in practice
To use collective bargaining agreements or sectoral funds, it's important to know how to do this. Here are some steps:
- Check your collective labor agreement: Find out what your collective labor agreement says about training and personal development. You'll often find details about the training budget there.
- Ask for advice: A conversation with your manager or HR department can provide clarity about what options are available.
- Sign up for sectoral initiatives: You can often apply for a training course directly via the website of an O&O fund.
What does De Unie for you?
At De Unie We believe everyone has the right to a sustainable and challenging career. We can help you with:
- Answering collective labor agreement questions about training.
- Questions about your career.
Want to learn more about your options? Become a member or contact us via De UnieOur experts are ready to help you!
You can reach us on working days from 8:30 AM to 17:00 PM on 0345 851 963 or sc@unie.nl.
