In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses have had to adjust their operations to stay afloat. One of the measures that some companies have turned to is flexible furlough.
Flexible furlough allows businesses to reduce the number of working hours for employees, with the government providing support for the lost hours through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).
If you are considering implementing flexible furlough, it is essential to have a written agreement in place to outline the terms and conditions of the arrangement. Not only will this provide clarity and transparency for your employees, but it will also protect your business in case of any disputes or legal issues.
What should a written agreement for flexible furlough include?
There are several key elements that should be included in a written agreement for flexible furlough:
1. The parties involved: This should state who the agreement is between – the employer and the employee(s).
2. The duration of the arrangement: It should be clear when the flexible furlough period will begin and end.
3. The hours and days of work: The agreement should specify the hours and days that the employee will be expected to work during the flexible furlough period.
4. The pay and benefits: The agreement should outline the pay and benefits that the employee will receive during the flexible furlough period, including any changes to their salary, bonuses, or benefits.
5. The communication plan: The agreement should outline how communication will take place between the employer and employee(s), including how often updates will be given, who will be responsible for providing them, and how they will be delivered.
6. The termination clause: It is important to outline how the arrangement can be terminated, including any notice periods that need to be given.
Why is a written agreement important?
Having a written agreement in place for flexible furlough is important for several reasons:
1. Clarity: A written agreement provides clarity for both the employer and employee(s) on the terms and conditions of the arrangement.
2. Protection: It protects both parties in case of any disputes or legal issues.
3. Compliance: The government has set out specific requirements for flexible furlough arrangements, and having a written agreement in place helps to ensure that these requirements are met.
4. Communication: A written agreement ensures that communication is clear, consistent, and documented.
In summary, if you are considering implementing flexible furlough, it is important to have a written agreement in place. This will provide clarity, protection, compliance, and clear communication for both the employer and employee(s). If you need help drafting a written agreement, it is advisable to seek legal advice.