Originally written by Timothy Adler on Small Business
UPDATED: The government has announced further changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).
The scheme, also known as furlough, has been extended until the end of March, with furloughed employees being paid 80 per cent of their wages until January 2021. It will be reviewed at this point.
What happens when furlough ends?
Rishi Sunak’s previous plan was to wind up the furlough scheme on October 31. After that, staff returning to work would’ve been moved onto the less generous Job Support Scheme (JSS). JSS has been put on hold.
But now that the furlough scheme has been extended until the end of March, furloughed employees will remain on the Job Retention Scheme, with the government paying up to 80 per cent of staff wages (capped at £2,500 a month). Anyone made redundant after September 23 can be rehired and put back on furlough.
Can you work while on furlough?
No, employees cannot take on any work for, or on behalf of, their employer while they’re on furlough. Nor can they take on any work linked or associated with their employer. This includes providing services (that includes attending meetings) and generating revenue for the business.
Employees can undertake study and