Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: What does it mean for you?
On 20 March 2020, the Chancellor announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). It’s a temporary scheme open to all UK employers for at least three months starting from 1 March 2020. The government expects it to be up and running by the end of April. Through the scheme, the government commits to cover 80% of the wages of ‘furloughed workers,’ up to £2,500 per month (of gross salary).
The online service you’ll use to claim is not available yet. The government expects it to be available by the end of April 2020.
How can I find out more about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme?
The government has produced a concise overview of the key points of the scheme on its gov.uk site. This is updated with the latest information and answers most questions about the operation of the scheme. If you are wanting to find out more about the employment law aspects of the scheme, espHR have a great Q+A blog answering employers’ questions.
How do I furlough a member of staff?
With the expert help of Samantha Wilkins at Vibrant HR, we have produced a step-by-step guide on how to furlough a member of staff. This guide shows you all you need to know – but please do get HR advice on your own situation. We have also drafted template letters to support the process of furloughing members of staff. Feel free to tailor to your requirements.
How can we help with the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme?
We know how hard it’s been firstly understanding the detail of the CJRS, and then working out how to manage the process. Especially when two weeks ago, most people had never even used the word ‘furlough’! The team at Wow can help you:
- calculate the amount to claim or work out how many staff you need to furlough
- make a claim and entering the correct information into the portal
- run your payroll for you through this period
- ‘unfurlough’ a member of your team
- with introductions to Samantha Wilkins at Vibrant HR, and other HR advisors/employment lawyers should you need to.
If you’d like us to help with any of the above, please speak to your usual contact at Wow or pop us through an email. If there’s anything else you need help with not listed above, please ask, and we’ll find a way.
