North West Bus Service Changes due to Coronavirus outbreak

[knutstransport]

RE: North West Bus Service Changes due to Coronavirus outbreak

(05/05/2020 19:48)Mayneway Wrote:  Buses will have to go back to pretty much normal operations sooner rather than later. The news today that the furlough scheme will be phased out over the coming weeks means operators will either lay drivers off completely or bring them into work. Can’t see them wanting to pay staff to sit at home.
80% of diamond north west staff are currently furlonged and their asking more drivers to join the scheme for the final 4 weeks. I was told 75% of stagecoach Manchester’s staff are currently furlonged. It’s s case of things having to get back to normal unless they have deep pockets.

Furlough with the government funding 80% is to continue until the end of June. We're likely talking about the government trying to get those who can't work from home back in work during June with some exceptions but crucially not everyone which will affect loadings.

According to The Guardian the Treasury are looking at numerous ideas for phasing out furlough including:
- Reducing the £2500 cap
- Reducing 80% support to 60%
- Allowing full time workers to be furloughed for some days and working on other days