Furlough Rights Explained: Know Your Entitlements

Gain In-Depth Understanding of Your Furlough Rights During the Pandemic Period

The UK Government introduced the Furlough Scheme as a critical support mechanism aimed at safeguarding Furlough Rights throughout the Covid-19 pandemic that began in March 2020. This scheme was specifically designed to assist individuals required to work from home, easing the financial burdens faced by employees unable to fulfill their work obligations. Under this initiative, employers were mandated to temporarily release affected employees from their duties, while the Government would cover 80% of their salaries or wages. Unfortunately, numerous individuals have reported experiences that starkly contrast with these initial intentions. As the UK faces a third national lockdown, many working mothers have encountered significant challenges, particularly with their furlough applications being denied, resulting in severe financial hardship and escalating debt issues.

A recent survey carried out by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) in partnership with parenthood advocate Mother Pukka unveiled alarming statistics regarding the experiences of working mothers amidst the current lockdown and school closures. This survey was aimed at shedding light on the pressing challenges these mothers face while balancing work demands and childcare responsibilities amid ongoing restrictions. Over 50,000 mothers participated in this survey, revealing that more than 70% of requests for furlough were denied. This worrisome trend indicates that an astonishing 78% of working mothers were never even presented with the option of furlough, while 40% were uncertain about their eligibility, especially regarding how school closures affect their ability to work efficiently.

The results of this survey highlight a concerning lack of understanding and awareness surrounding the furlough program among parents and caregivers. The Government has set specific provisions for parents unable to work due to heightened caregiving responsibilities arising from the pandemic. This includes the entitlement to request furlough if parental obligations hinder their capacity to work remotely or necessitate a reduction in working hours. Despite these provisions, a considerable number of working mothers remain uninformed about their rights and entitlements, revealing a significant communication gap and outreach failure from both employers and the Government.

Initially designed to prevent a surge in layoffs and redundancies triggered by the pandemic's economic fallout, the Furlough Scheme was set to conclude in April 2021 but has since been extended multiple times to address the ongoing challenges faced by employees, particularly those managing 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 scenario underscores the pressing need for proactive measures aimed at enhancing awareness and utilization of this vital support system.

In light of the ongoing challenges, the survey indicated that nearly all respondents reported elevated levels of anxiety during the lockdown, with 90% experiencing heightened stress. Nearly 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 their careers have left nearly half of the respondents feeling anxious about their family’s financial security.

Given these urgent concerns, the TUC advocates for enhanced protections for working mothers and others unable to work due to the restrictions imposed by the coronavirus. They are calling for the right to furlough to be extended to diverse groups, including those who are shielding and classified as clinically vulnerable. Moreover, the TUC emphasizes the necessity for employers to explore alternative solutions before resorting to furlough, such as adjusting working hours, providing paid leave, or enabling remote work options to support their employees effectively.

Essential Recommendations to Strengthen Furlough Rights for Parents and Caregivers

• The right to flexible working arrangements tailored for parents
• Provision of ten days of paid carers’ leave specifically 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 Rights

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

Once you are well-versed in your rights, take the initiative to engage in open discussions with your employer regarding potential options available to you. Exploring flexibility within your role can lead to mutually beneficial solutions, such as reduced working hours, additional paid leave, or even the possibility of remote work or redistributing responsibilities to better suit 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 crucial to support working parents during these challenging times.