The UIF has revealed that its capacity and systems were tested to the limit at the beginning of the Covid-19-related lockdowns. This, as the fund had to cater to an increased amount of individuals who required benefits from the fund. the fund provides short-term financial relief to individuals who are unable to work due to circumstances out of their control.
To better serve people impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) was established by the fund. The fund says the introduction of TERS posed further challenges.
This is the one reason why the UIF will be undertaking a renewal strategy to improve its services over the next 12 to 18 months.
UIF Commissioner Teboho Maruping said that the fund has teamed up with a service provider to streamline the processors to improve the services offered by the UIF.
He said, “We are testing to see if we are fit for purpose. We've brought in a service provider on board to help us streamline these processes, and streamline our structure and we are hoping within the next 12 to 18 months will have a revamped UIF, a UIF that looks different.
Western Cape UIF director Siphokazi Qasana added the fund will conduct employer advocate sessions to create awareness and educate employers around South Africa about the UIF laws.
“A lot of our businesses, especially in the small, medium enterprises are not compliant and those are due to issues relating to unawareness, lack of awareness. Most businesses are small. They’re not aware of the legislation of the country and there are employers who are just not compliant,” explained Qasana.
