COVID-19: Employment Law Update 10: The Job Support Scheme Extended
The Job Support Scheme Extended
The Government announced in December 2020 that the furlough scheme will be extended until 30 April 2021.
The Government also announced that it will continue to pay 80% of employees’ wages, up to a maximum of £2,100 per month until the scheme ends. However, employers would still need to pay their employees’ National Insurance Contributions and pension contributions under this scheme.
Can employers place parents on furlough if they are unable to work due to childcare commitments?
On 5 January 2021 the Government confirmed that employers can (but it is not mandatory) place employees on furlough who are unable to work from home or work reduced hours if they are unable to work due to having 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.
At the same time it was announced that employers can (but again it is not mandatory) furlough employees who have to shield due to the fact they are classed as clinically vulnerable or at the highest risk of severe illness from coronavirus and following public health guidance and are unable to work from home or work reduced hours.
Disclaimer – The above facts are accurate as of 15:00 on 20 January 2021.
For advice on this, or any other employment matter, contact the employment team on 01905 723 561 or email: Guy.salter@smesolicitors.co.uk or Sonia.ali@smesolicitors.co.uk
Added: 21 Jan 2021 10:34
Back To Blog