Feature Articles

Within a few months the global coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has spread to almost every country in the world. In the UK at its peak, the number of patients in intensive care was estimated to be doubling every 3-4 days. Now numbers of new cases are beginning to decline in most affected countries. Deborah Bellamy reviews current the information available about the virus and what the public health concerns are for the UK.

Some FAQs on furlough and the Government’s Job Retention Scheme which aims to provide employers an alternative to redundancies.

An EAP — an employee assistance programme — is one of the benefits that can be offered to employees to support them in challenging times. But how much do employee assistance programmes cost, and are they worth it?

As the number of cases in the UK and abroad continue to rise, the situation is quickly evolving. There are a number of risks posed by the virus that employers will need to be aware of, and it is important to remember that employers have a duty of care towards their employees and should take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of their workforce. This information is being continually checked and updated.

On 26 March 2020, as part of emergency coronavirus legislation, the Government outlined future plans to introduce more volunteering that can assist the health and social care sector during the outbreak.

At Ramadan, participating employees often have to manage extra physical and mental stresses, fatigue and dehydration. Jon Herbert describes how flexibility, discussion and forward planning from employers can help everyone involved.

With the coronavirus lockdown extended, employees may be struggling with their mental health, especially if they are working from home for the first time. Ben McCarthy, lead researcher and employment law writer at Croner-i, outlines ways of tackling this issue.

This article was written on 23 March and is based on guidance that was in place on that date. The Government has subsequently amended and clarified its guidance meaning that some features of this article may not be up to date. See our article Furlough and the Job Retention Scheme Q&As for up to date information on the Job Retention Scheme.

The COVID-19 outbreak is a continously fast-moving subject. Please refer to the GOV.UK’s website for the latest updates.

Ramadan is the holy month of the Islamic Calendar during which Muslims partake in religious observance, including ritual fasting from sunrise to sunset. This year, Ramadan is expected to run from 23 April to 23 May 2020 and we have outlined some key ways to support staff during this period.