Being forced to pay for CeMAP

mb124

Hi,

First post, but I'm a bit stuck.
I'm currently working in the mortgage department for a certain large bank as a seller. I only provide a non-advised service currently, but on the advice of the FSA, this is likely to be a thing of the past when it comes to mortgages. Although initially keen on the idea, gradually I've really fell out of the enjoyment of it. Basically, I really don't enjoy the job any more. I've applied for roles within the same company but sadly didn't have any joy. I've been offered a job having gone through the process with a different building society as an entry level underwriter.

Basically, a few months ago, many of us were put forward to do the CeMAP qualification to become a qualified mortgage advisor. I'd been rejected for a job I really wanted so decided to try my hand at doing this. In all honesty, my heart isn't in it. I've had the books a while and nothing really sticks because I've lost interest in the role.

What I want to know is having only been put forward on the 1st module (worth £160 according to the actual CeMAP website), it has been made clear that if we don't go ahead, they will chase us for the money. Which I've heard is around £500. I need to make a decision whether to take the job, but I'm worried about speaking to management and to be honest, they probably won't be forthcoming and just tell me they want the money.

I've seen a lot of people leave this job and not get penalised, but due to me being the latest batch to be put on it. I'm quite worried. I'm really tempted by the other job, but I don't want my fingers burnt. I can't afford to have 500 quid taken off me.

Does anyone know what rights my employer has to take this money back? I never signed anything, merely agreed. and it was certainly not written in any contract or document that i had to take this exam when I took the job. It seems odd to me that being put through a qualification that will eventually be crucial to staying in that job can mean you get penalised if you decide it's not for you.

Any help much appreciated as to what my rights are with this. Cheers,:o

beckysbobbles1

As far as I'm aware it would need to be in your contract stating that any examinations you take, they have the right to recoup some or all of the costs if you decide to leave.

This was in my contract and when I left I had to pay back 50% of the costs in my final salary with the company.

CeMAP are pretty easy exams to do but I admit, I'm not sure why they are making you do these when they are not even up to RDR qualifications now.

Are you on the FCA register as a CF30?

mb124

Have checked HR policy and it is there about recouping. But it also mention signatures and a proper plan. None of this really occurred, Maybe a one line email saying pretty much 'ok' as a response.

They are making us do this to become qualified mortgage advisors.My issue is it seems like they are trying to recoup costs for modules and resits I haven't even taken, nor have they even paid for yet.

I'm not even sure if I am on an FCA register. Considering this is all under old FSA rules, as I believe this started prior to the change in regulation.

I figure I may just fight my corner and take the risk. Do they take it from your final salary? Surely that can't be done as a lump sum. People have to eat!