John Baron MP highlights furlough scheme flexibility

MP encourages local businesses to use this new feature

The Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme has helped to protect more than 9.3 million jobs nationwide, including 11,300 jobs in Basildon & Billericay. As the lockdown continues to ease, and the economy is beginning to open up, the scheme is changing and becoming more flexible. From 1st July, businesses can bring furloughed employees back to work on a part-time basis. Firms will have the flexibility to decide the hours and shift patterns of their employees, with the Government continuing to pay 80% of salaries for the hours they do not work.

John said,

“The Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme has been a great success, and has helped many businesses and employees across the country, as well as over 11,000 people in our constituency. As the economy begins to open up, I encourage local businesses to use the flexibility in the scheme to their and their employees’ advantage.”

Notes to Editors:

• For more information about how the Jobs Retention Scheme is changing, please see John’s press release of 15the June [‘John Baron MP highlights forthcoming changes to furlough scheme’].

• If people are having difficulty obtaining essential supplies, they can register with Essex Coronavirus Action, which is a collaboration between Essex County Council, the Essex Public Health Team and local groups. Their number is 0300 303 9988, open from 8.00am – 8.00pm, seven days a week.

• They can also register with the Community Hub, which is run by Basildon Council and provides support to the elderly and vulnerable at this time. The number is 01268 533 333 (option 1), or e-mail coronavirusresidents@basildon.gov.uk