Tottenham reversed their decision to use the government’s furlough scheme for its non-playing staff during the COVID-19 crisis. This is a aresult of criticism from supporters.
On 31st March, Tottenham made an announcement that 550 of its employees would take a 20% pay cut in an attempt to “protect jobs.”
The decision raised criticism and among them was from Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Clubs. On Friday, the THST urged the club to “do the right thing” and reverse their decision. It added, “mass supporter opinion against these decisions had solidified.”
However, on Monday, a Spurs statement was released. A part of it read, “non-playing staff will receive 100% of their pay for April and May. Only the board members will take salary reductions.”
The statement read, “with no clarity on when football might resume, and under what conditions, we shall continue to keep this under ongoing review.”
“We are actually aware that many supporters were against the decision we made regarding furloughing staff who could not carry out their jobs from home.”
“This once again underlines that we bear different pressures to other businesses. Many of whom have and will continue to apply for support from the scheme as the government intended.”
With the statement having been released, the club’s chairman, David Levy is among members taking the pay cut.
He said, “We regret any concern caused during an anxious time. We hope the work our supporters will see us doing in the coming weeks, as our stadium takes on a whole new purpose will make them proud of the club.”
Additionally, the Premier League club added they would continue to consult with stakeholders. Alongside the THST, “who share our desire to protect jobs.”
The club also announced they will become the first in the Premier League to provide equipment for drive-through. This will aid in COVID-19 testing for NHS staff and their families.