Almost two million workers were unemployed or fully furloughed in January – and had been for at least six months, according to new research. The report calls for the full furlough scheme to remain in place for several months after public health restrictions have been lifted to give firms time to bring staff back. But the report warns the cumulative impact of the crisis is causing the biggest risk to jobs. Some 700,000 workers were unemployed for at least six months in January, while a further 500,000 workers had been fully furloughed (not working any hours), according to the report. We’ve already extended our furlough scheme through to April so that people have certainty that help is in place.

Source: Daily Mirror February 17, 2021 22:30 UTC