Category: COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 vaccination a condition of deployment for frontline health and social care workers

Health and social care workers, including volunteers who have face to face contact with service users, will need to provide evidence they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to be deployed, under new measures announced Measure aims to ensure patients and staff are protected against infectionDeadline for care home workers to be double … Continue reading COVID-19 vaccination a condition of deployment for frontline health and social care workers →

Furlough numbers for September at record low

The number of people on furlough fell to a record low during its September 2021 last month of operation. Figures show 210,000 employees came off the scheme in September – and around half of the 1.1 million people supported were on flexible furlough working some of their usual hours. Insolvency Service data also showed redundancy … Continue reading Furlough numbers for September at record low →

Powers to make temporary modifications to employment taxation

According to HM Treasury, COVID-19 has highlighted the limited scope to make changes to the current benefits in kind and expenses tax system to respond quickly to the pandemic. The government has had to introduce primary and secondary legislation with temporary effect to respond to the pandemic, to exempt a number of benefits in kind, … Continue reading Powers to make temporary modifications to employment taxation →

Nine in 10 disabled workers want to continue working from home after pandemic

Nine in 10 disabled workers surveyed (90 per cent) who worked from home during the pandemic want to continue doing so at least some of the time, according to a TUC poll. An overwhelming majority of disabled workers who worked from home during the pandemic told the TUC that they want to continue doing so … Continue reading Nine in 10 disabled workers want to continue working from home after pandemic →

Final claims for the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rebate Scheme

The SSP Rebate Scheme closed on 30‌‌th September 2021 and employers have until 31‌‌st December 2021 to submit any final claims, or to amend claims already submitted.  As a reminder, if an employer with fewer than 250 employees and paid SSP to employees for sickness absence or self-isolation that was coronavirus-related on or before 30th‌‌ ‌September 2021, the employer was … Continue reading Final claims for the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rebate Scheme →

Action – final Job Retention Scheme claims

HMRC are contacting employers with the latest information about the closure of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme The CJRS closed on 30th ‌‌September 2021 and the final deadline for claims was 14‌‌th October 2021. What you need to do now: if claims for September need to be amended, this … Continue reading Action – final Job Retention Scheme claims →

Improperly obtained bounce-back loan

The traffic commissioner for the West Midlands, Nick Denton, recently held a public inquiry into Mafuwer Logistics Ltd. The company was granted a standard international licence for three vehicles in December 2020. The traffic commissioner found that almost all of the company’s financial resources had been provided by a £50,000 bounceback loan (BBL) in May … Continue reading Improperly obtained bounce-back loan →

Those pregnant urged to be vaccinated

Data is showing that 17% of the most critically ill COVID-19 patients are pregnant women who have not been vaccinated. Professor Christ Whitty states: ‘COVID-19 is dangerous for pregnant women and their babies. The medical advice is clear: it is much safer to be vaccinated against COVID than get COVID if you are pregnant or … Continue reading Those pregnant urged to be vaccinated →

Quarter of million left furlough in August and redundancies hit seven-year low

260,000 workers left the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) in August.The number of workers on the scheme fell to a low of 1.3 million, an 85% reduction since its peak in May 2020.Redundancy statistics show that notifications for redundancies in the same month were 12,687, the lowest level in seven years. The furlough scheme was … Continue reading Quarter of million left furlough in August and redundancies hit seven-year low →

Furlough – the Ending credits of an epic

In early 2020, the world was introduced to the ‘furlough’ word as UK PLC closed down with 80% wages covered by grants provided through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. The scheme, a temporary measure to combat the COVID-19 impacts on UK society, has aided over 11 million individual employments, avoiding mass redundancies. The CJRS scheme … Continue reading Furlough – the Ending credits of an epic →

Simplified travel system takes off

new simplified travel system with a single red list and the rest of the world comes into force from 4th October 2021at 4amfully vaccinated travellers from over 50 countries and territories have simpler, cheaper rules, with just a single post arrival test neededchanges come as UK welcomes fully vaccinated residents of over 50 countries and … Continue reading Simplified travel system takes off →

£500 million Plan for Jobs Expansion

Hundreds of thousands of people to be supported as part of the more than £500 million expansion of the government's Plan for Jobs. Workers leaving the furlough scheme and unemployed people over the age of 50 will be helped back into work as part of more than £500m expansion of the government’s Plan for Jobs. … Continue reading £500 million Plan for Jobs Expansion →

Chancellor praises workers as Plan for Jobs enters next stage

Chancellor hails UK workforce as Government’s Plan for Jobs enters the next stage.As furlough winds down schemes such as the super-deduction, Kickstart scheme and traineeships continue.Rishi Sunak will call on UK firms to take advantage of support during a visit to a Legal and General modular homes factory and housing site in Yorkshire. Latest figures … Continue reading Chancellor praises workers as Plan for Jobs enters next stage →

Support for vulnerable households over winter

Vulnerable households will be able to access a new £500m support fund to help them with essentials over the coming months as the country continues its recovery from the pandemic. £500m support available to help those most in needMoney available to councils in October 2021 Vulnerable households across the UK will be able to access … Continue reading Support for vulnerable households over winter →

Report your Pay Gap – deadline approaching

Businesses with 250+ employees are required by law to report their gender pay gap. The 5th April 2021 deadline for the report to 5th April 2020 was delayed due to COVID until 5th October 2021 as a legal concession. The snapshot for public sector employers is different. Those employers who have not yet reported their … Continue reading Report your Pay Gap – deadline approaching →

More support to help people to become HGV drivers

Up to 4,000 will be trained as HGV drivers to help tackle skills shortages and support more people to launch careers within the logistics sector.Package of measures includes using MOD examiners to help increase immediate HGV testing capacity by thousands over the next 12 weeks.Nearly 1 million letters to be sent to all drivers who … Continue reading More support to help people to become HGV drivers →

Reinsurance Scheme opens to help festivals, conferences and live events

The UK Live Events Reinsurance Scheme is to give events the confidence they need to plan through to summer 2022The Scheme supports live events such as concerts and festivals, conferences and business events - that are at risk of being cancelled or delayed due to an inability to obtain Covid-19 cancellation insurance Chancellor Rishi Sunak … Continue reading Reinsurance Scheme opens to help festivals, conferences and live events →

£1.3 billion in furlough cash returned

New statistics show that businesses have relayed £1.3 billion in furlough cash, with £300 million returned in the last three months.The repayments are being made as more employees return to work as the economy recovers.The number of people on furlough has fallen to the lowest level since the start of the pandemic, with a further … Continue reading £1.3 billion in furlough cash returned →

Shielding programme ends

The government has ended the requirement for shielding guidance for people previously considered to be clinically extremely vulnerable. They will no longer be advised to shield again. The closure of the shielding programme follows a pause to shielding guidance in place since 1st April 2021. This decision is based on there being far more information … Continue reading Shielding programme ends →

Temporary medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccination of people working or deployed in care homes

A letter from the Director of Adult Social Care Delivery to local authorities, directors of adult social services, care home providers, care home managers and agencies outlines a temporary exemption certification process: Temporary medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccination of people working or deployed in care homes Those working or volunteering in care homes who have … Continue reading Temporary medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccination of people working or deployed in care homes →

Millions of the UK’s most vulnerable are to be offered a COVID-19 booster vaccine

Millions are to be offered a COVID-19 booster vaccine from as the government confirms it has accepted the final advice from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The programme will be rolled out to the same priority groups as previously. This means care home residents, health and social care workers, people aged … Continue reading Millions of the UK’s most vulnerable are to be offered a COVID-19 booster vaccine →

Autumn and winter Covid plan

The UK Prime Minister has …set out the government’s plan to manage Covid throughout autumn and winter. Boosters, testing and refreshed public health advice will help keep the virus under control in the coming monthsPlan B prepared to protect NHS if necessaryPM continues to warn the pandemic is not over and public need to remain … Continue reading Autumn and winter Covid plan →

Plan for Jobs

HM Treasury have published A progress update setting out how the Plan for Jobs has supported millions of people, and will continue to support people into work and develop their skills. Plan for JOBS - Progress Update The OBR forecast an unemployment peak of just 6.5% rather than the previously expected 12%, meaning 2 million … Continue reading Plan for Jobs →

Mental health in the workplace

Small Business Minister Paul Scully has written an open letter to businesses about the resources available to help promote positive mental health in the workplace. Dear colleague, COVID-19 has affected all our lives and our livelihoods in profound ways over the last year. The nation has come together to keep ourselves and our loved ones … Continue reading Mental health in the workplace →

Treasury Direction – HMRC to make payments under the Coronavirus support scheme: working households receiving tax credits (Extension).

The purpose of this treasury direction extension is to provide a support payment of £500 to persons entitled to working tax credit for a period which included 2nd March 2021, but who did not qualify to receive the original support payment under the initial direction. Further Treasury Direction made under Section 76 of the Coronavirus … Continue reading Treasury Direction – HMRC to make payments under the Coronavirus support scheme: working households receiving tax credits (Extension). →

Numbers on furlough fall to lowest level

The number of people on furlough has fallen to the lowest level since the start of the pandemic as the UK economy continues to rebound and businesses reopen, according to new statistics. around 340,000 people have moved off furlough across the UK over the course of July, according to the latest dataa total of 1.6 … Continue reading Numbers on furlough fall to lowest level →

Consultation on mandatory vaccination for frontline health and care staff

Consultation launched on making vaccination a condition of deployment for frontline workers in health and care settingsStaff may be required to have coronavirus (COVID-19) and flu vaccines to protect patients from infection, serious illness or death92% of NHS staff have had their first dose and 88% both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, and ministers urge … Continue reading Consultation on mandatory vaccination for frontline health and care staff →

End of temporary insolvency measures

Temporary insolvency restrictions protections are being lifted and new targeted measures to support small business and commercial tenants introduced. Temporary measures brought in to support businesses from insolvency during the pandemic will be phased out from 1st October 2021. Companies in financial distress as a result of the pandemic have been protected from creditor action … Continue reading End of temporary insolvency measures →

COVID-19 SSP rebate scheme ending

The SSP rebate scheme for employers with less than 250 employees ends on 30th September 2021. Under The Statutory Sick Pay (Coronavirus) (Funding of Employers’ Liabilities) Regulations 2020 and the Statutory Sick Pay (Coronavirus) (Funding of Employers’ Liabilities) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020 certain small and medium size employers could reclaim COVID related Statutory Sick Pay … Continue reading COVID-19 SSP rebate scheme ending →

Submit August claims, prepare for closure of the Job Retention Scheme and the latest on SEISS

Dear PAYadvice.UK , I’m writing to you with the latest information about the support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes a reminder of the 14‌‌th September 2021 deadline for submitting your clients’ August Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) claims, information to help you and your … Continue reading Submit August claims, prepare for closure of the Job Retention Scheme and the latest on SEISS →

Actions for you and your clients – preparing for closure of the Job Retention Scheme and the latest on SEISS

Dear PAYadvice.UK I’m writing to you with the latest information about the support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and a reminder of the ‌14th September 2021 deadline for submitting your clients’ August Coronavirus Job Retention … Continue reading Actions for you and your clients – preparing for closure of the Job Retention Scheme and the latest on SEISS →

Events industry boost with Government-backed insurance scheme

As the economy reopens with the lifting of Covid restrictions, getting the right kind of insurance is acting as a barrier for some events organisers impacting jobs. So the government has partnered with Lloyd’s to deliver the Live Events Reinsurance Scheme as part of the Plan for Jobs. The scheme will see the government act … Continue reading Events industry boost with Government-backed insurance scheme →

£375 million scheme to drive investment in innovative firms of the future opens for applications

£375 million Future Fund: Breakthrough opens for applications to help high-growth, R&D intensive companies bring game-changing technologies to marketThe government will co-invest with private investors to help scale-up innovations across UK industries including life sciences and clean technology – driving economy and creating jobsChancellor Rishi Sunak will convene a landmark Treasury Connect conference in London … Continue reading £375 million scheme to drive investment in innovative firms of the future opens for applications →

Action required – upcoming deadline for furloughing employees and the latest on SEISS

Dear Payadvice.UK , I’m writing to you with the latest information about the financial support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) and upcoming changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS). To find out what … Continue reading Action required – upcoming deadline for furloughing employees and the latest on SEISS →

Job Retention Scheme 15th July updates

The HMRC have added further updates to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) on Thursday 15th July 2021. The main changes are removal of claim periods ending on or before 30th June 2021, details of the new August taper added to the callout boxes and other parts of the guidance, the addition of taper examples … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme 15th July updates →

6,150 investigations of furlough fraud underway

In a parliamentary response to a question from the DUPs Mr Gregory Campbell asking for information on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), the Treasury Minister Jesse Norman has confirmed that 1.3 million UK employers have used the furlough scheme to protect jobs. He also confirmed that HMRC have opened 6,150 inquiries into suspected overpayments … Continue reading 6,150 investigations of furlough fraud underway →

Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer

The campaign highlights a range of activities and opportunities for families, children and young people such as exploring a local museum or discovering a National Cycling Network TrailFamilies encouraged to get back out and Rediscover Summer after a year of missed opportunities The government’s Rediscover Summer campaign has launched to help inspire families to get … Continue reading Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer →

Job Retention Scheme July update

Submit your CJRS claims for June If you haven’t submitted your June claim, employers must do so by We‌dn‌esd‌ay 14th J‌ul‌y. For June employers can claim 80% of their furloughed employees’ usual wages (based on an historic snapshot point) for the hours not worked, up to a cap of £2,500 per month. What you or … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme July update →

Self-isolation to be eased – Step 4

From 16th August 2021, double jabbed individuals and under 18s will no longer need to self-isolate if they are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 As part of step 4 of the COVID-19 roadmap, double vaccinated people will no longer be legally required to self-isolate if they are identified as a close … Continue reading Self-isolation to be eased – Step 4 →

Covid loans data reveals £80 billion support

Businesses were supported through the pandemic with nearly £80 billion of emergency government-backed loans, final figures published by HM Treasury 6th July 2021 reveal. Businesses across the UK have received almost £80 billion worth of emergency government-backed loans during the Covid crisisOver 1.6 million loans – including Bounce Back Loans and Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans … Continue reading Covid loans data reveals £80 billion support →

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) 5th grant

Claiming the fifth SEISS grant  The Self Employed will be able to make claims for the fifth SEISS grant when the online claims service opens in late J‌ul‌y. From mid-J‌ul‌y, HMRC will be contacting those who may be eligible to let them know their personal claim date. This will be the earliest date they can … Continue reading Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) 5th grant →

Job Retention Scheme numbers continue to shrink

Some highlights from the statistics CJRS has supported a total of 11.6 million jobs across all claims submitted to HMRCby 14th June 2021the number of employments on furlough has decreased by 1.2 million from 30th April to 2.4 million on furlough at 31st May 2021, down from 3.5 million on 30th April. Numbers on CJRS … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme numbers continue to shrink →

Guernsey delay introduction of new Secondary Pension to 2023

The States of Guernsey Committee for Employment & Social Security is seeking to reassure employers and pension providers that they will be given sufficient time to prepare for the incoming Secondary Pensions legislation. The original aim was for the legislation, which is currently being drafted, to come into effect from January 2022, but the Committee … Continue reading Guernsey delay introduction of new Secondary Pension to 2023 →

Almost 800,000 tax relief claims for working from home

Employees who have worked from home during the pandemic but are now returning to offices can still claim tax relief on household expenses for this tax year. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that since April, almost 800,000 employees working from home during the pandemic, have claimed tax relief on household related costs. The … Continue reading Almost 800,000 tax relief claims for working from home →

Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from July 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was extended until 30th September 2021 and the level of grant available to employers under the scheme stayed the same until 30 June 2021. Claims must be made by 14th July 2021. Changes to the level of grant from 1st July 2021 From 1st July 2021, the level of grant … Continue reading Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from July 2021 →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 24th June 2021

HMRC have updated the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance on the afternoon of 24th June 2021 for the: withdrawal of the .ods and .xls bulk claim templates, andamalgamation of the bulk claim process for 16+ employees (rather than having a separate process for 16-99 employees and 100+ employees) Page titleChangesClaim for wages through the Coronavirus … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 24th June 2021 →

Returning to work – Flexible season tickets

New national rail flexible season tickets and online season ticket calculator launch. #TheFutureIsFlexible as 2 and 3 day-a-week passengers given control over their commute, with potential savings of hundreds of pounds against daily and season ticketsonline ‘season ticket calculator’ will help passengers find the cheapest option as flexible season tickets go on sale from 21st … Continue reading Returning to work – Flexible season tickets →

Earnings and employment from Pay As You Earn Real Time Information, UK: June 2021

The ONS analyses of HMRC RTI data shows a recovery in both employment and wages; Early estimates for May 2021 indicate that the number of payrolled employees rose by 0.5% compared with May 2020, which is a rise of 141,000 employees; the number of payrolled employees is down by 1.9% since February 2020, a fall … Continue reading Earnings and employment from Pay As You Earn Real Time Information, UK: June 2021 →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take

Dear Payadvice.UK , I’m writing to you with the latest information about the financial support schemes available to help your clients, as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes: the 21‌‌ ‌June deadline for joining the online VAT deferral new payment schemethe Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)a reminder of the 14‌‌ … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you may need to take →

Care homes workers to be fully vaccinated to protect residents

People working in CQC-registered care homes will need to be fully COVID-19 vaccinated with both doses. Decision follows a public consultation with staff, providers, residents and familiesFurther consultation will be launched on whether to extend to other health and social care settings Care home residents will be better protected from death and serious illness, following … Continue reading Care homes workers to be fully vaccinated to protect residents →

Final Euros games at Wembley to host larger crowds in extension of Events Research Programme

At least 40,000 fans will be allowed for the final four Euros fixtures at Wembley including the semi-finals and final Wimbledon also to have increasing capacities throughout the Championships, with the Men’s and Women’s Finals on 10th and 11th July being played in front of a full Centre CourtMore sports and cultural events also to … Continue reading Final Euros games at Wembley to host larger crowds in extension of Events Research Programme →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 10th June 2021

HMRC issued further updates to the Job Retention Scheme guidance last week on the 10th June 2021. Page titleChangesClaim for wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeText update:   If you’ve missed the claim deadline and have a reasonable excuse, you should access the service as normal.  You can submit a request from the page … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 10th June 2021 →

1.3 million employees moving off furlough in March and April

Furlough numbers have fallen to their lowest level this year, according to official statistics published as the number of people relying on the scheme fell to 3.4 million. 1.3 million fewer employees accessed the furlough scheme in March and April 2021 according to new datathe furlough scheme will remain in place until the end of … Continue reading 1.3 million employees moving off furlough in March and April →

Let’s get back to business

Dear PAYadvice Are you re-opening your business, or planning to do so shortly? If you're bringing back your employees part time, you can claim furlough flexibly for them under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. Claims for periods in April are now closed, but if you need … Continue reading Let’s get back to business →

CJRS guidance updates 27th May 2021

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) guidance has been updated Thursday 27th May 2021 to include: The introduction of a new template, enabling employers to upload information in for 16 to 99 employees in a claim.  The change was not as simple as amending the existing template for 100 or more employees - the existing process … Continue reading CJRS guidance updates 27th May 2021 →

New template if claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

HMRC have added 27th May 2021 a new section to guidance called 'If you're putting lots of employees on furlough'. A new link has been added for a download of a template for claiming for 16 to 99 employees. If you’re claiming CJRS for 16 to 99 employees on or after 27th May 2021, employers … Continue reading New template if claiming for 16 to 99 employees through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme →

JETS job scheme relaunching 100,000 careers

Around 100,000 people who lost jobs in the pandemic are on the road back to work due to a government programme providing targeted support to relaunch their careers. On average, nearly 500 jobseekers have started on the £238 million JETS – Job Entry Targeted Support – scheme over the last seven months. And just under … Continue reading JETS job scheme relaunching 100,000 careers →

TUC – employers “massively under-reporting” Covid work-related deaths

The number of people who have died from exposure to Covid at work is being “massively under-reported” by employers, according to a TUC report published today Sunday 23rd May 2021. Employers claim just 2.5% of working-age Covid deaths are from exposure to Coronavirus at work System for reporting workplace deaths and infections is “letting bad bosses off … Continue reading TUC – employers “massively under-reporting” Covid work-related deaths →

CJRS guidance updates 20th May 2021, and changes for July, August and September 2021.

Only minor changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) guidance on 22nd May 2021. Page titleChangeAll Pages with a callout boxClaims for furlough days in May 2021 must be made by 14th June 2021.  Submit your CJRS claims for May CJRS claims for periods in May can be submitted now, and ‌‌must be made … Continue reading CJRS guidance updates 20th May 2021, and changes for July, August and September 2021. →

Employers: Your business might have changed, but your workplace pension duties haven’t.

The Pensions Regulator is reminding employers that while the workplace has changed due to the pandemic, their workplace pensions duties have not. All employers have a legal duty to automatically enrol eligible staff into a workplace pension and pay in the correct contributions for them. While these are uncertain times for all employers, they must … Continue reading Employers: Your business might have changed, but your workplace pension duties haven’t. →

Traffic light system: safe return to international travel

From 17th May 2021, the ‘Stay in the UK’ regulation will cease and international travel will be allowed to restart, governed by a new traffic light system. Written statement to Parliament - Rt Hon Grant Schapps MP We have made enormous progress this year in tackling the pandemic across Britain. That progress has been hard … Continue reading Traffic light system: safe return to international travel →

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)

The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme is open for claims. If you think you might be eligible, check if you can make a claim. Those who qualify must make their claim for the fourth grant on or before 1 June 2021. Remember - agents can’t apply for their self-employed clients. So make the claim yourself to … Continue reading Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) →

New ‘We Offer Testing to our Staff’ scheme launched

New sticker scheme launched allowing UK businesses to display their offer of free testing for staff alongside materials promoting use of the NHS COVID-19 app to check in customers and visitorsAlongside the vaccine rollout and checking in with the NHS COVID-19 app, regular testing is at the heart of plans to reopen society and the … Continue reading New ‘We Offer Testing to our Staff’ scheme launched →

Low Pay Commission publish their report on National Minimum Wage enforcement

The Covid-19 pandemic has left low-paid workers more vulnerable and businesses under greater pressure than ever before. This increases the risk of minimum wage underpayment and demands a proactive and strategic response from the Government. These are the conclusions of a report into compliance and enforcement of the National Minimum Wage (NMW), published 11th May … Continue reading Low Pay Commission publish their report on National Minimum Wage enforcement →

Furlough mistakes! 10,000 employers to receive letters

The HMRC’s Taxpayer Protection Taskforce, was set up to ensure that furlough money has been claimed correctly. The Taskforce is now writing to 10,000 more employers who they think may have made a mistakes with furlough claims. The letter will to ask the employer to check their claims. For support and guidance correcting claims see: … Continue reading Furlough mistakes! 10,000 employers to receive letters →

Queen’s Speech to build back better from the pandemic

New laws to ensure the UK builds back better and stronger from the pandemic will be unveiled in next week’s Queen’s Speech. Following the global impact of coronavirus the Government’s clams its new legislative programme will be focussed on ‘supporting the nation’s recovery, backing the NHS, levelling up and spreading opportunity’. It is to support … Continue reading Queen’s Speech to build back better from the pandemic →

Latest Furlough statistics

Latest statistics from HMRC show furlough continuing to fall as UK PLC returns to work: provisional figures show there has been a decrease in levels of furlough between February and March 2021 with 4.2 million employments on furlough at 31st March 2021since the start of the scheme a cumulative total of 11.5 million jobs have … Continue reading Latest Furlough statistics →

West Yorkshire pair arrested on suspicion of £3.4 million furlough fraud

A man and a woman from West Yorkshire have been arrested as part of an HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) investigation into a suspected £3.4 million Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) fraud. HMRC’s Taxpayer Protection Taskforce officers executed a search warrant on 28th April 2021 in the Bradford area and arrested a 35-year-old man and … Continue reading West Yorkshire pair arrested on suspicion of £3.4 million furlough fraud →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 6th May 2021

Did you pay furlough during April 2021 and need to make a grant claim. You have until 14th May 2021. Thursday 6th May and the next round of guidance updates. The main update is the publication of the claims information for periods from December 2020 to February 2021. Page titleChangesCoronavirus Job Retention Scheme collection All … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 6th May 2021 →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need to take

Dear Payadvice Ltd, I’m writing to you with the latest information about financial support schemes available to help your clients during the pandemic. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral new payment scheme. Thank you for providing invaluable support to your clients … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need to take →

Limit on funeral mourners to be removed

Families and friends will shortly be able to pay their respects to loved ones in greater numbers, with numerical limits on funerals to be removed. Legal limit on numbers of mourners at funerals to be removed in England at Step 3 of the roadmapVenues such as places of worship to set limits based on individual … Continue reading Limit on funeral mourners to be removed →

Kickstart scheme takes off

The Kickstart Scheme was announced by the Chancellor last Summer, and will offer hundreds of thousands of job opportunities over the next two years. A £2 billion pot is available to fully fund positions with businesses across Britain. 16,500 young people have already started their 6 month paid job placement through the #Kickstart Scheme and … Continue reading Kickstart scheme takes off →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 22nd April 2021

With the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme celebrating its 1 year opening with 8.9 million furloughed at one time, HMRC have issued further phased updates (22nd April 2021) to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme guidance. Details and links follow: Page titleChangesCheck if your employer can use the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Employee Page)Individuals who are taxed … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updated 22nd April 2021 →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need

Dear Payadvice Ltd, I’m writing to you with the latest information about financial support schemes available to help your clients as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral new payment scheme. Thank you for … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need →

Treasury Direction – 15th April 2021: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Job Retention Bonus

The 7th CJRS Treasury Direction made under Sections 71 and 76 of the Coronavirus Act 20 This direction extends, and modifies the effect of, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”). The extension applies from 1st May 2021 ending on 30th September 2021. Treasury Direction made under Sections 71 and 76 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 … Continue reading Treasury Direction – 15th April 2021: Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Job Retention Bonus →

Staff COVID-19 vaccines in care homes consultation

Staff in care homes with older adult residents in England may be required to have a COVID-19 vaccine to protect residents from the virus. Consultation launched on making COVID vaccination a condition of work for people who are deployed in these homesCare home workers urged to take up offer of a vaccine now to keep … Continue reading Staff COVID-19 vaccines in care homes consultation →

Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) – Step 2

How to make your workplace COVID-secure. Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) Applies to: England (see guidance for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) The 14 guides cover a range of different types of work. Many businesses operate more than one type of workplace, so may need to use more than one guide as they think through what they need … Continue reading Working safely during coronavirus (COVID-19) – Step 2 →

Cycle training for families and children

As COVID-19 restrictions lift, Transport Secretary invests in the Bikeability cycling proficiency training scheme so that more people can feel confident cycling. government invests record £18 million toward cycle training for children and familiesfunding will ensure children are cycling-confident and whole family groups can receive bespoke training sessions through the Bikeability programmeas restrictions are cautiously … Continue reading Cycle training for families and children →

Specialist job coaches to help young people onto the jobs ladder

The recruitment is a further boost for the government’s Plan for Jobs, which aims to help people of all ages move into work. Thousands of young people will benefit from six-month intensive employment support packages as the Department for Work and Pensions recruits an extra 150 specialist Youth Employability Coaches across the UK. Youth Employability … Continue reading Specialist job coaches to help young people onto the jobs ladder →

Furlough claim data updated

The Monthly data on claims made by employers through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for December 2020 and January 2021 has been updated (7th April 2021). Transparency data - Employers who have claimed through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Future publications HMRC will publish a new list each month alongside the historical data already published. … Continue reading Furlough claim data updated →

COVID-19 support – latest information

Dear Payadvice Ltd, I’m writing to you with the latest information about financial support schemes available to help your clients. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral new payment scheme. Self-Employment Income Support Scheme To support you in helping your clients, here … Continue reading COVID-19 support – latest information →

Recovery Loan Scheme launches

A new government-backed loan scheme launched 6th April 2021 to provide additional finance to those businesses that need it. new loan scheme to provide further support to protect businesses and jobsloans include 80% government guarantee and interest rate capgovernment has backed £75 billion of loans as part of a £350 billion wider support package The … Continue reading Recovery Loan Scheme launches →

Apply early for British passport

The government have urged people not to delay applying for a British passport and to allow more time to be processed. While it is still illegal to holiday overseas and the “Stay in the UK” regulation remains in place, by applying for a passport now, people can make sure nothing stands in their way when … Continue reading Apply early for British passport →

Further easing of Covid restrictions from 12th April 2021

Outdoor pubs, shops, gyms and hairdressers to reopen. From Monday 12th April 2021 additional premises will be able to reopen – with the rules on social contact applying. Indoor settings must only be visited alone or with household groups, with outdoor settings limited to either six people or two households. This includes non-essential retail; personal … Continue reading Further easing of Covid restrictions from 12th April 2021 →

Twice weekly rapid testing to be available to everyone in England

Everyone in England is able to access rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing from 9th April 2021. Everyone in England, including those without symptoms, will be able to take a free rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) test twice a weekAlongside vaccine rollout, regular testing is at the heart of plans to reopen society and the economy, helping to suppress … Continue reading Twice weekly rapid testing to be available to everyone in England →

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme fourth grant

Find out if you’re eligible for the fourth grant which will cover the period February 2021 to April 2021. Also find out information about the fifth grant. The Budget confirmed that the fourth SEISS grant will be set at 80% of 3 months’ average trading profits, paid out in a single instalment, capped at £7,500. … Continue reading Self-Employment Income Support Scheme fourth grant →

Government writes open letter to businesses on Plan for Growth

Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks forward to a year of economic recovery at the second meeting of the Build Back Better Business Council as Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng write an open letter to businesses on the Government’s Plan for Growth. The joint letter between Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Business Secretary Kwasi … Continue reading Government writes open letter to businesses on Plan for Growth →

England Covid restrictions change 29th March 2021

Some of the rules changed on 29th March 2021. However, many restrictions remain in place. You must not socialise indoors with anyone you do not live with or have formed a support bubble with. You should continue to work from home if you can and minimise the number of journeys you make where possible. You … Continue reading England Covid restrictions change 29th March 2021 →

Extended opening hours to continue when non-essential retail returns

Longer opening hours in England will help people return to the high streets safely when non-essential shops re-open from 12th April 2021. Temporary measures to make socially distanced shopping easier to continueLonger opening hours for retail to give shoppers more flexibility and ease transport pressuresFlexible working hours for construction also to continue, helping industry continue … Continue reading Extended opening hours to continue when non-essential retail returns →

Workplace testing programme expands to offer free rapid home testing

In the next major push for the Government’s workplace testing programme, all employers will now be able to offer their employees free, rapid and regular testing that can be taken at home Government makes rapid home testing available for all businesses with over 10 employees who cannot offer on-site testingBusinesses must register interest by 12th … Continue reading Workplace testing programme expands to offer free rapid home testing →

Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 25th March 2021

HMRC have published further updates to the Job Retention Scheme guidance: Page titleChangesAll PagesFor periods from 1 November 2020 to 30 April 2021, your employer can claim for you if you were employed on or before 30 October 2020, as long as they have made a PAYE Real Time Information (RTI) submission to HMRC between 20 March 2020 and 30 October 2020.Check if … Continue reading Job Retention Scheme guidance updates 25th March 2021 →

Government-backed loans help thousands of businesses to protect jobs during pandemic

Government-backed finance helped thousands of businesses through the pandemic with a loan issued through the Bounce Back Loan scheme roughly every 20 seconds since its launch last May, new figures reveal today, 25th March 2021. new statistics reveal that three Bounce Back Loans were issued every minute since May 2020 launchemergency loans provided almost £180 … Continue reading Government-backed loans help thousands of businesses to protect jobs during pandemic →

Plan for jobs – well underway!

Statement made on 23rd March 2021: As part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to support claimants back into work, DWP is moving at pace this spring and summer to introduce new Jobcentres, as a direct response to the pandemic. On top of the 13,500 new Work Coaches who will be in place by the end … Continue reading Plan for jobs – well underway! →

Legal footing for national unlocking set out ahead of vote

The government has set out regulations that will pave the way to the easing of all restrictions from 21st June 2021. New ‘roadmap regulations’ set out before the next phase of easements take place on 29th March 2021One-year review of Coronavirus Act proposes measures to expire or suspend. Measures to continue are essential and proportionate … Continue reading Legal footing for national unlocking set out ahead of vote →