Covid-19: Employment update

As you will be all too aware, we are currently in lockdown number 3 due to Covid-19 and the attempts to lower the infection rate.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (the “Scheme”) has been tweaked several times over the last few months, in line with our response to the pandemic.  The Scheme is currently due to expire on 30 April 2021 and, until that point, employers are able to furlough employees on a full or part time basis (provided that certain conditions have been met). Employers can claim 80% of a furloughed employee’s usual salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500 per month.

HMRC has now updated their guidance to confirm that an  employee can be furloughed, if they are unable to work, including from home or working reduced hours because they:

• are clinically extremely vulnerable, or at the highest risk of severe illness from coronavirus and following public health guidance; or
• have caring responsibilities resulting from coronavirus (COVID-19), such as caring for children who are at home as a result of school and childcare facilities closing, or caring for a vulnerable individual in their household

This provides welcome clarification that parents who stay at home to look after school age children may be furloughed. However, it is not mandatory for employers to furlough such employees.

If you need help with your specific situation please contact Alison Gair This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0118 912 0300