The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended for one month, with employees receiving 80% of their current salary for hours not worked, up to a maximum of £2,500. Under the extended scheme, employers will only have to pay National Insurance and pension contributions, with the Government paying the full 80% of wages, and details of how to claim will be available shortly. The Job Support Scheme, which was due to start on 1 November, has been postponed until the Job Retention Scheme ends.

The grant available under the Self‐Employed Income Support Scheme from 1 November 2020 until 31 January 2021 has already been doubled to 40% of average monthly trading profits, capped at £3,750. The level of the second grant covering 1 February until 30 April 2021 will be confirmed in due course.