The UK Government announced a national return to lockdown as of Thursday 5th November .
Furlough Scheme Extension
The existing Furlough Scheme, which was due to end on 31st October, has been extended for a further 5 months. For November and onwards, companies will be able to claim up to 80% of gross salary for any furloughed employee. This can be applied to any employee who was on the payroll at the end of October. The employer can furlough employees part-time, receiving a payment pro-rated payment for the hours they are not working.
There are upper limits to the value of support for each person. The company can make up the salary to 100% at its own cost if it wishes.
Job Support Scheme
This scheme, which was due to replace the Furlough Scheme from the beginning of November, has been scrapped.
Job Retention Bonus
The Job Retention Bonus, which was due to be paid to all companies who kept on furloughed staff until January, has been delayed because of the extension of the Furlough Scheme.