Who can be furloughed?

8 January 2021

The government has recently updated its guidance on who can be furloughed under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).

It expressly covers, amongst others, those who “are unable to work, including from home or working reduced hours” because they:

  • are clinically extremely vulnerable, or at the highest risk of severe illness from Coronavirus and following public health guidance; or
  • have caring responsibilities resulting from Coronavirus (COVID-19), such as caring for children who are at home as a result of school and childcare facilities closing, or caring for a vulnerable individual in their household.

Employers and employees are therefore able to agree furlough so that the employee can care for school age children at home (or where other childcare facilities are closed).

As always, employers must be careful not to discriminate against employees in suggesting or requesting furlough.

If you have any questions regarding the CJRS/furlough scheme then please contact the team.