Recently published data from HMRC shows that almost two million workers remain on furlough, ahead of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) being wound down over the summer.
The data showed that the number of employees on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) fell by 590,000 during June, with the total number of furloughed workers standing at 1.9 million in June.
The data also revealed that younger workers have been leaving furlough most quickly, whilst one in ten workers aged 65 or over were on furlough.
Giving comment on the data, Economist at the Resolution Foundation, Charlie McCurdy, said: ‘The number of furloughed employees has fallen below two million for the first time as the economy continues to re-open. But that is higher than many expected, and a cause for concern as the scheme is wound down.
‘With employer contributions to furloughed staff doubling from this Sunday, and the scheme ending completely in just two months’ time, it’s vital that as many furloughed staff as possible return to work soon in order to limit the rise in unemployment this Autumn.’