Furlough Rights: A Clear Guide to Your Entitlements

Key Information on Your Furlough Rights During the COVID-19 Crisis

The UK Government launched the Furlough Scheme as a critical support initiative aimed at safeguarding Furlough Rights amid the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic beginning in March 2020. This strategic response was particularly focused on individuals mandated to work from home, thereby relieving the financial burden on employees who found themselves unable to fulfill their job responsibilities. Under this scheme, employers were obligated to temporarily release impacted staff from their duties, with the Government covering 80% of their wages or salaries. However, many workers have reported experiences that starkly diverge from these intentions. As the UK endures a third national lockdown, many working mothers have encountered significant obstacles, notably the denial of their furlough applications, which can precipitate severe financial hardship and escalating debt.

Recently, a comprehensive survey conducted by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), in collaboration with parenthood advocate Mother Pukka, has uncovered alarming statistics concerning the experiences of working mothers during the ongoing lockdown and school closures. This survey aimed to shed light on the formidable challenges these mothers face while balancing the dual demands of employment and childcare amid persistent restrictions. With over 50,000 mothers participating, the findings revealed that more than 70% encountered denials for their furlough requests. This distressing trend indicates that an astonishing 78% of working mothers were never even offered the furlough option, and 40% remained uncertain about their eligibility, particularly regarding how school closures impacted their ability to work effectively.

The insights from this survey reveal a troubling lack of awareness surrounding the furlough program among parents and caregivers. The Government has instituted specific provisions for parents unable to work due to heightened caregiving responsibilities stemming from the pandemic. This includes the right to request furlough if parental obligations hinder their ability to work remotely or necessitate a reduction in hours. Despite these provisions, many working mothers remain uninformed about their entitlements, highlighting a critical gap in communication and outreach from both employers and the Government.

The Furlough Scheme was established to avert a wave of layoffs and redundancies spurred by the economic fallout of the pandemic. Initially slated for conclusion in April 2021, it has been extended multiple times to address the persistent challenges faced by employees, especially those juggling childcare due to school closures. However, the TUC warns that many working mothers are not fully leveraging this support due to a lack of information regarding the furlough options available to them. This situation underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to enhance awareness and utilization of this essential assistance.

In light of these ongoing challenges, the survey indicated that nearly all respondents experienced elevated anxiety levels during the lockdown, with 90% reporting increased stress. Almost half expressed concerns that their parental status could result in workplace penalties due to their childcare responsibilities. Many working mothers have resorted to using their annual leave to manage childcare duties, while others have reduced their working hours or even taken unpaid leave. The financial implications of stepping back from work have left nearly half of the respondents feeling anxious about their family’s financial security.

Considering these pressing issues, the TUC is advocating for enhanced protections for working mothers and others unable to work due to restrictions imposed by the coronavirus. They are calling for the right to furlough to be extended to a broader range of groups, including those who are shielding and deemed clinically vulnerable. Furthermore, the TUC emphasizes the importance of employers exploring alternative solutions before resorting to furlough, such as adjusting working hours, providing paid leave, or facilitating remote work options.

Actionable Recommendations for Strengthening Furlough Rights for Parents

• 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

Proven Strategies for Working Parents to Protect Their Rights

As a working parent, it is essential to familiarize yourself with your entitlements under the coronavirus job retention scheme, as these may significantly differ from your traditional rights. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the UK government website to stay informed about your rights during these unprecedented times.

Once you are knowledgeable about your rights, take the initiative to engage in constructive discussions with your employer regarding potential options. Exploring flexibility within your role can lead to beneficial solutions, including reduced working hours, additional paid leave, or even the possibility of remote work or reallocating responsibilities to better accommodate your current circumstances.

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