New furlough scheme aimed at firms ‘forced to shut’ due to local lockdown measures.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak today unveiled the expansion of the Job Support Scheme, which is a successor to the furlough scheme.

The government says it will pay employees who cannot work 67% of their salaries, up to £2,100 a month. The scheme will come into force on 1 November and run for six months before being reviewed. Employees must be off work for a minimum of seven days to be eligible.

We are closely examining the details of this scheme as they emerge over the next few days to see what it means for your business. 

We understand that this scheme will only apply to businesses told to close – rather than those who choose to shut because of the impact of Covid restrictions.

Until November businesses that are asked to close can continue to use the furlough scheme.

It is important that if you are making claims under the new scheme you calculate the amount you can claim accurately. If you need support to make your claim – email Murray Patt now.

We are awaiting further details of this particular scheme to see of this applies to all our clients.