Staff undertaking training courses or volunteering roles

This policy sets out how CAAT supports employees undertaking short, medium, and long-term training courses or volunteering roles, recognising both professional development needs and the organisation's limited resources as a small charity. It defines three tiers of support: up to 15 paid days per year for medium-term courses directly relevant to the role, unpaid leave for longer courses with at least six weeks' notice, and course fee contributions of up to £500. The policy also covers the written application process for Workplan approval, post-course obligations (including knowledge sharing and a 12-month retention expectation), and a sabbatical entitlement of up to one year for employees with five or more years' service. Notable caveats include a full fee refund clause if the employee leaves within 12 months of completing a medium or long-term course, and that holiday does not accrue during unpaid leave.