As part of the next stage of easing lockdown the Government has made a number of announcements to help support businesses during this transition.
On Monday (11 May), the Government published guidance to help employers, employees and the self-employed to work safely during the coronavirus pandemic.
This ‘COVID-19 secure’ guidance will help get businesses back up and running and workplaces operating safely.
The new guidance covers 8 different workplace settings which are allowed to be open:
- Construction and other outdoor work
- Factories, plants and warehouses
- Labs and research facilities
- Offices and contact centres
- Other people’s homes
- Restaurants offering takeaway or delivery
- Shops and branches
- Vehicles
Please note that you may need to use more than one of these guides as many businesses operate in more than one type of workplace such as an office, factory and fleet of vehicles.
Yesterday (12 May), the Government also announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will remain open until the end of October, this ensures furloughed workers across UK to continue to receive 80% of their current salary, up to £2,500 a month.
In addition to this the Government has stated that new flexibility will be introduced, from the start of August furloughed workers will be able to return to work part-time with employers being asked to pay a percentage towards the salaries of their furloughed staff.
Find out more about the Government guidelines
Find out more about the Government the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme