The Government has announced that workers will be able to carry over any annual leave they didn't get to take during the coronavirus pandemic.
The holidays, which usually cannot be carried between leave years, will now be able to be used within the next two years.
The regulations announced on Friday will allow up to four weeks of unused leave to be carried into the next two leave years.
The Government said the changes will ensure all employers affected by the virus have the flexibility to allow workers to carry over leave at a time when granting it at the moment could leave them short-staffed.
Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “Whether it is in our hospitals, or our supermarkets, people are working around the clock to help our country deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
“Today’s changes will mean these valued employees do not lose out on the annual leave they are entitled to as a result of their efforts, and employers are not penalised.”
Environment Secretary George Eustice also said: “From our fields to our supermarkets, we are hugely grateful to the many people working around the clock to keep the nation fed.
“At this crucial time, relaxing laws on statutory leave will help ensure key workers can continue the important work to keep supplies flowing, but without losing the crucial time off they are entitled to.
“We welcome the measures the food industry is already taking to keep shelves stocked and supply chains resilient, and will continue to support them with their response to coronavirus.”
The changes will amend the Working Time Regulations, which apply to almost all workers, including agency workers, those who work irregular hours, and workers on zero-hours contracts.
