Business owners can now bring furloughed employees back to work part time as the government hopes to 're-open the UK'.
More than 9.3 million people signed up to the Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) when it was launched in May.
Although the scheme will remain open until October, a number of changes are being made today (July 1).
Employers can now choose to bring furloughed employees back to work for any amount of time and any shift pattern, while still being able to claim CJRS grant for the hours not worked.
The government will pay 80 per cent of wages up to a cap of £2,500 for the hours the employee is on furlough, as well as employer National Insurance Contributions (ER NICS) and pension contributions for the hours the employee is on furlough.
But it's important to note, employers will have to pay staff for the hours they work.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak said: “Our number one priority has always been to protect jobs and businesses through this outbreak.
"The furlough scheme, which will have been open for eight months by October, has been a lifeline for millions of people and as our economy reopens we want that support to continue.
“Giving firms the flexibility to bring back furloughed workers on a part-time basis will help them work gradually and help them plan for the months ahead.”
The government has also announced that businesses who no longer need the CJRS grants they previously claimed have the option to voluntarily return them.
Companies across the UK who are bringing back furloughed staff today include The Drury Tea and Coffee Company, and Yes Energy Solutions
