HMRC has updated its guidance on the Scheme to confirm that you are able to furlough staff whose health has been affected by COVID or any other conditions. That includes if they are unable to work from home or work reduced hours because they:
- are clinically extremely vulnerable, or at the highest risk of severe illness from coronavirus and following public health guidance
- have caring responsibilities resulting from COVID, 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
You do not have to furlough them in these cases, it is always the employer’s choice whether or not to furlough. Also, please note that the guidance makes it clear you cannot furlough staff who are sick with COVID or are self-isolating in line with NHS guidance. In those cases they are likely to be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from day one, and you can claim back up to two-weeks worth of SSP in this scenario. |