Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme window extended after Bectu campaign
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) has been updated so that anyone who was on a payroll up until 19 March can be furloughed.
Head of Bectu Philippa Childs welcomed the decision and said:
“Bectu has campaigned for the window for claims for the CJRS to be extended beyond the 28 February so the new cut off point for qualification of 19 March is to be welcomed.
“This latest update reflects an intention from government that as many people as possible should be able to access financial support. The spirit of the scheme is clearly that it should be interpreted as widely as possible and this new guidance supports that view.
“This update alongside the previous decision to allow people to be re-hired, have their contract extended and furloughed will provide reassurance to many of our members who work contract to contract as a PAYE employee. Employers must now act in the interests of the industry and furlough people where they can.
“However, there are some who will still not be covered as they don’t have an employer to be furloughed from and those who are self-employed or operate as limited companies who don’t qualify for the Self-employed Income Support Scheme.
“We are working to ensure that no freelancer is left behind during this crisis and will continue to advise government and employers about the best approach to take when interpreting these guidelines and during this fast moving situation.”