The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, better known as furlough, which has helped so many businesses throughout lockdowns and the pandemic, is coming to end on Thursday 30th September.
As this support scheme comes to a close, you may be planning ahead and thinking about the next steps for your business and employees.
To help you prepare, Chambers Wales has collated the most frequently asked questions.
When can I submit my final claim for furlough?
Employees can remain on furlough until 30th September which is the last date that businesses can claim for. The claims for September must be submitted within a fortnight (Thursday 14th October).
Are there any restrictions on submitting furlough claims for certain employees?
If your employee is serving a contractual or statutory notice period, such as retirement, resignation or redundancy, your business cannot claim for dates within this timeframe.
What can my business do when the scheme closes?
When the furlough scheme ends, businesses will need to bring previously furloughed employees back to work on their agreed terms and conditions, agree any changes to employees’ terms and conditions with them or consider ending the employment of their employees.
It is important to note that equality and discrimination laws still apply when making decisions about how and when to end furlough arrangements.
What support is available for employees if my business is unable to bring them back to work?
There are several Government support schemes available for employees who are unable to return to the business following furlough. These include the Kickstart Scheme for 16 – 24 year olds, Plan for Jobs support measures and the Job Help website which offers a range of training opportunities and advice.
What support is available to help my business grow post-furlough scheme?
If your business is looking to take on new employees, a number of the aforementioned schemes are a great place to start. You can also access other UK Government support to help arrange placements, offer apprenticeships and upskill with training opportunities.
For more support on the end of furlough or other HR issues please contact your account manager if you are a Chamber member or email info@chamberswales.com to find out how Chambers Wales can support your business.
