The Covid diaries: Day 15 - Fur-low, Sweet Chariot

A daily fly-on-the-wall blog about running a legal business during the Covid-19 crisis.

By Dónall Breen - 03 April

Fur-low, Sweet Chariot.

As you may have guessed from my name, I don't come from these parts. Born and raised in the Emerald Isle, I came to the UK about 6 years ago when times were good.

Since then, there have been a few hick-ups. Brexit wasn't great for a European here, then there was a bit of political turmoil. But the last few weeks has brought out the best of the British.

From an employment lawyer's perspective, the government response has been pretty good. Although many employers are making the hard decision to furlough, it does mean a large chunk of the working population know they will get money in their accounts rather than facing the prospect of unemployment.

We have seen several clients going above and beyond to take care of their employees during this time.

It hasn't been perfect. We have struggled to get detail from the government on some aspects of its furlough scheme, like the interaction between furlough (on the one hand) and holiday entitlements or consultation (on the other hand). But there is no doubt everyone is doing their best. The government, HMRC, employers, HR and employment lawyers alike. There has been a huge amount of information sharing in the employment law and HR networks as we all genuinely are trying to make sure the right advice is getting out there.

I have no doubt that this is a country where people are at their best when times are at their hardest. I am proud to be here, a part of the solution, working with colleagues and clients who want to make things better. Even if it is just in our little labour law bubble. So this week I sign off with one of my favourite quotes. Until next week, stay safe, stay inside, and bookmark our blog.

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

If you would like to read our Covid diaries starting from day 1 please click here.