24 August 2021

This update covers:

  • Furlough scheme government contribution
  • Ventilation how-to video
  • Pensions advice for new employers
  • Peter Dowd MP visits local salon glam rock studios in Bootle
  • COVID-19 guidance

Furlough scheme government contribution

In September, the government's job retention scheme contribution will remain at its current rate: The government will pay 60% of wages for hours not worked and employers will pay 20%.

The monthly limit of £2,500 will stay in place, so workers will not notice the difference.
Furlough was introduced in spring 2020 to stop people being laid off by their employers during lockdown.

The scheme is due to end on 30 September.

Click for further details


Ventilation how-to video

Adequate ventilation reduces how much virus is in the air. It helps reduce the risk from aerosol transmission.
The law says employers must make sure there’s an adequate supply of fresh air (ventilation) in enclosed areas of the workplace. This has not changed during the pandemic.

You can do this by using:

  • Natural ventilation - fresh air comes in through open windows, doors or air vents. This is also known as ‘passive airflow’, or
  • Mechanical ventilation - fans and ducts bring in fresh air from outside

The Health & Safety Executive has released a video on using ventilation to tackle Covid transmission in the workplace.


Pensions advice for new employers

Employing staff for the first time?

With Workplace Pensions, it's important that you understand what to do and by when, so you can meet your automatic enrolment duties on time.

Your legal duties begin on the day your first member of staff starts work. This is known as your duties start date. Even if you think you won't need to put your staff into a scheme, you'll still have duties.

Visit The Pension Regulator's website for guidance.


NHBF organises salon visits for MPs

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is organising a programme of MPs visits to salons across the UK through August and September. This provides an opportunity for MPs, legislators, and decision makers to:

  • Meet salon owners and employees direct to discuss the challenges of Covid-19 over the last year and their feedback on the impact of any Government support received
  • Discuss areas where the UK and Devolved Governments (as applicable) could provide further support in the future e.g. through further support for apprenticeships or reform of business rates.

Read full story of Bootle MP Peter Dowd’s visit to Glam Rock Studios in his constituency

COVID-19 guidance

Read our four nations’ FAQs which include links to the latest government guidance that must be followed.

Coronavirus: Business closures and restrictions in Northern Ireland
Coronavirus: Safer businesses and workplaces in Scotland
Working safely during coronavirus in England
Workplace guidance for employers and employees in Wales

See all updates