Furlough extended

The TUC has welcomed the extension of the government’s Job Retention Scheme from the end of May to 31 June. General secretary Frances O’Grady said: “This is very welcome news for workers and their families. It was vital that this announcement came quickly after the lockdown extension.”  

She urged businesses to take advantage of the option. “Employers must continue to make full use of the scheme to furlough workers and protect jobs,” she said. “There is no reason to make any staff redundant.” 

An extension to the eligibility period should also help some newly-hired workers, by allowing those employed on or before 19 March 2020 to qualify. Previously they had had to be employed on or before 28 February 2020.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/chancellor-extends-furlough-scheme-to-end-of-june