Government 80% subsidy in the UK if working for a US company?

Doglady4

So sorry to be saying hello at such an awful time, but someone has just informed me that if you work in the UK for a US registered company, you aren't entitled to the 80% Government pay subsidy whilst in the recommended 12 week quarantine? Does anyone know if this is true please? Apparently SSP is all that can be claimed? (Also a "Key Worker [Courier] if that makes a difference?)
Stay healthy if you can
Thank you x

calcotti

The Job Retention Scheme has to be applied for by the company, the employee cannot apply. I have no idea whether foreign companies are able to apply. Even if they are they no employer is obliged to apply.

p00hsticks

You may find that - even though the global headquarters are in America - if they do a lot of business and/or employ a lot of people here that they have a UK subsiduary company that you actually work through.

However the issue may be that as someone in the key worker category they are unlikely to actually be placing you on furlough - you going into self-isolation (presumbly as one of the members of the community with serious health issues that need to be 'shielded' ?)  is not the same thing, and I don't think that the Government Retention scheme would apply in those circumstances.

Jeremy535897

If you are a key worker, why would they lay you off? Delivery companies are hiring at the moment.

Doglady4

Jeremy535897 said:

If you are a key worker, why would they lay you off? Delivery companies are hiring at the moment.

Not laid off - pre-existing health condition, so unfortunately following Government recommendations means no work :-(

Jeremy535897

Read the Government's guidance on SSP, otherwise look at universal credit.