furlough scheme extended to end of April 2021

Rishi Sunak announces further furlough scheme extension

The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, has just announced the furlough scheme is being extended until the end of April 2021, so an extra month on the previous announcement of the end of March 2021.

He has also confirmed the government's 80% contribution will remain the same to the end and not be reduced, as previously indicated, in January.

It was claimed that the move would provide "certainty for millions of jobs and businesses."

Chancellor on the furlough extension

Speaking in parliament, having announced that the next budget announcement will be held on March 3rd, the Chancellor said:

"Our package of support for businesses and workers continues to be one of the most generous and effective in the world - helping our economy to recover and protecting livelihoods across the country. We know the premium businesses place on certainty, so it is right that we enable them to plan ahead regardless of the path the virus takes, which is why we're providing certainty and clarity by extending this support."

Paul Burton, Head of Frettens' specialist employment & HR team on the furlough extension

“The Chancellor’s announcement is not a big surprise given the continued status of the pandemic and the fact the vaccines will not really have a big effect until the spring.  The rules of the scheme remain the same, but if you have any questions please do contact us for advice.”

Want to stay up to date?

We will post any announcements, along with advice for employers and HR professionals as soon as we are able. These will be shared on our website and on social media.

Our Employment and HR newsletter will continue to be sent out monthly, though as important information is announced by the government, we may send this to you more frequently.

Our quarterly employment training sessions are being held online until further notice. Sign up to our newsletter to receive invitations.