Furlough Rights: Know Your Entitlements Clearly

Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Your Furlough Rights During COVID-19

The UK Government initiated the Furlough Scheme as an essential support measure aimed at safeguarding Furlough Rights throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, which escalated in March 2020. This program primarily served individuals required to work from home, providing significant relief to employees unable to fulfill their job responsibilities. Under this scheme, employers were mandated to temporarily relieve affected staff from their roles, with the Government covering 80% of their salaries or wages. However, numerous individuals have voiced experiences that starkly contradict these intended benefits. As the UK endures a third national lockdown, many working mothers have encountered severe obstacles, particularly with their furlough applications being denied, resulting in dire financial hardships and accumulating debts.

A recent survey by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), in collaboration with parenthood advocate Mother Pukka, has revealed alarming statistics reflecting the experiences of working mothers during the ongoing lockdown and school closures. This survey aimed to shed light on the critical challenges these mothers face while balancing professional responsibilities and childcare amidst persistent restrictions. Over 50,000 mothers participated, with more than 70% reporting that their furlough requests were denied. This disturbing trend highlights that a staggering 78% of working mothers were never even presented with the furlough option, while 40% expressed confusion about their eligibility, particularly concerning how school closures affect their ability to work effectively.

The results from this survey illuminate a troubling lack of awareness concerning the furlough program among parents and caregivers. The Government has set forth provisions tailored specifically for parents unable to work due to heightened caregiving responsibilities brought on by the pandemic. This includes the right to request furlough when parental obligations hinder their ability to work remotely or necessitate reduced working hours. Despite these provisions, a significant number of working mothers remain uninformed about their entitlements, underscoring a considerable communication gap and outreach failure from both employers and the Government.

Originally, the Furlough Scheme was established to prevent a surge of layoffs and redundancies triggered by the economic fallout of the pandemic. Initially set to conclude in April 2021, it has been extended multiple times to address the persistent challenges faced by employees, particularly those juggling childcare due to school closures. However, the TUC warns that many working mothers are not capitalizing on this support due to a lack of information regarding the furlough options available to them. This situation highlights the urgent need for proactive measures aimed at enhancing awareness and facilitating the utilization of this vital assistance.

In light of these ongoing challenges, the survey indicated that nearly all respondents reported increased anxiety levels during the lockdown, with 90% experiencing heightened stress. Almost half expressed concerns that their parental status could lead to workplace penalties due to their childcare responsibilities. Many working mothers have resorted to taking annual leave to manage childcare tasks, while others have reduced their working hours or even opted for unpaid leave. The financial strain of stepping back from work has left nearly half of the respondents feeling apprehensive about their family’s financial security.

Given these pressing issues, the TUC advocates for enhanced protections for working mothers and others unable to work due to restrictions imposed by the coronavirus. They are urging for the right to furlough to be extended to various demographics, including those who are shielding and deemed clinically vulnerable. Additionally, the TUC emphasizes the importance of employers considering alternative solutions before resorting to furlough, such as adjusting working hours, providing paid leave, or facilitating remote work options.

Essential Recommendations to Empower Parents in Exercising Their Furlough Rights

• The right to flexible working arrangements for parents
• Provision of ten days of paid carers’ leave for parents
• Increased sick pay aligned with the Living Wage to ensure financial stability during self-isolation
• Access to the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme for newly self-employed parents

Actionable Steps for Working Parents to Protect Their Furlough Rights

As a working parent, it is imperative to educate yourself about your entitlements under the coronavirus job retention scheme, as these may vary significantly from your usual rights. To obtain the most accurate and current information, visit the UK government website to stay informed about your rights during these unprecedented times.

Once you have a clear understanding of your rights, take the initiative to have discussions with your employer about potential options. Exploring flexibility within your role can lead to beneficial outcomes, such as reduced working hours, additional paid leave, or the possibility of remote work arrangements to better align with your current situation.

The Treasury is calling on employers to make fair and responsible decisions, reminding them that they have the option to furlough employees facing childcare challenges due to school closures or those who are shielding from the virus. This call for accountability is vital in providing support to working parents during these challenging times.