Further help needed for employers, say small firms, as furlough wind-down begins
From today, employers will have to pay national insurance contributions (NICs) and pension contributions for furloughed staff. From next month, the percentage of employee wages paid through the Job Retention Scheme to furloughed staff will be reduced in stages, with employers taking on an increasing proportion of pay for those who are furloughed.
Firms in England that hire an apprentice aged between 16 and 24 between now and January will receive £2,000. Those that hire new apprentices aged 25 and over will be paid £1,500. New figures show that apprenticeship starts in May of this year stood at 9,000, down 60% from this time last year.
Bowling alleys, skating rinks and casinos can now reopen in England, while beauticians can provide a wider range of treatments. Socially-distanced indoor theatre and music shows, weddings and sit-down meals for up to 30 people can take place. Trials ofsporting events with audiences will also commence.
Commenting on the developments, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) National Chairman Mike Cherry said:
“One in five small firms have been forced to let staff go over the last three months. Even with critical emergency measures in place, jobs are sadly being lost in the here and now. As we look to the autumn, it’s clear that we cannot afford to pull up the business support drawbridge any time soon.
“Giving firms £1,000 for every employee they bring back from furlough is welcome, but Job Retention Bonus funds won’t manifest until next year – jobs are being lost today.
“In addition to job retention, the Chancellor should be looking at job creation. Nine in ten people who moved from unemployment back into work following the crash did so via a small business or self-employment. This recession will be deeper than the last, and the annual cost of running a small business has soared by at least £60,000 since 2011, primarily due to rising employment costs.
“That’s why we’re seeking help for employers where NICs are concerned, either through an uprating of the Employment Allowance or a NICs holiday for firms who employ those furthest from the workplace.
“Greater incentives to take on apprenticesin Englandare much needed. Policymakers have to ensure that proposedfunds reach the small firms that can make a difference with minimal bureaucracy. More than 90% of apprentices employed by small businesses are under the age of 25. Once again, this is money that will take several months, at the very least, to reach firms.
“It’s great that more small businesses in England can finally open their doors after months of no revenue coming in. Further targeted support for those having to remain shut is urgently needed, especially in areas where local lockdowns are in place, as is help for the hundreds and thousands of people – including company directors and the newly self-employed – who have received no support at all for more than 130 days.”
About FSB
As experts in business, FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in Government. Its aim is to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk. You can follow us on twitter @fsb_policy.