Freelancer group, IPSE, has raised the issue that while employees can be guaranteed sick pay when they self-isolate or if their office closes, freelancers and the self-employed do not have the same security and risk losing income.
IPSE has called on the Government to issue guidance specific to freelancers and also set up an emergency fund to support self-employed people who lose income because of the Coronavirus outbreak.
Andy Chamberlain from IPSE said: “Freelancers and the self-employed must not be left behind in planning for the Coronavirus outbreak. They are at particular risk because, unlike most employees, they are not eligible for sick pay if they have to self-isolate or their client office closes.
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“IPSE has written to the Health Secretary calling on him to urgently issue guidance for freelancers. We’ve also called on him set up an emergency fund to support freelancers and contractors who cannot avoid losing income because of the outbreak.
“If you are freelance, you should not put yourself more at risk just because you are self-employed. Start discussing arrangements with your client now, plan your income for the next few months carefully and, if possible, prepare to work remotely. Crucially though, whether you’re an employee or a freelancer, health comes first.”
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Susie Hughes © Shout99 2020
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