What? Go to work !

 CityAM have an article about people who are on furlough not wanting to go back to work. Andrea Leadsom says, 'Some people, like those with gardens who have been growing their own vegetables, did not want to leave furlough because it has been great. They are afraid of returning to work.' 

Some 11.5 million jobs have been supported by the scheme, people have been paid to stay at home. They have been on it for so long they are thinking about going back part time or retiring altogether. Employers are going to find they have staff shortages, as people will be reluctant to change their routine. 

I remember the relief I felt when I reached 60 and was able to retire. Having to go to work to make enough money to pay for my mortgage just wasn't enjoyable any more. I worked for an agency and was able to pick and choose my hours so I reduced them. I stayed in the same job, at B&Q, which suited me. An easy job which wasn't far to travel to. It was convenient. 

One day the agency asked me if I would do some work for another company which was about 15 miles away. I agreed to do it because I needed to earn some money. The work at B&Q had gone quiet. I was asked to go there straight away so I packed a day bag and off I went in my car. 

Within ten minutes of starting out panic overtook me. I went into Morrisons car park and broke down completely. I couldn't face going to a new job. It was a bit strange because I had worked for agencies for years and it never bothered me. In fact I was grateful that I had the opportunity of driving different vehicles and loads. I was never bored. But that was when I was young and keen. Now in my mid fifties, I was comfortable to stay at B&Q, at a job I knew. I had to ring the agency and tell them I couldn't go to the new job. I felt bad to let them down, but I was in no fit state to pilot a 40 tonner. 

My wages dropped a bit more because I limited myself to only working for B&Q. Time was more important than money. But as you know, I survived. 

I can well understand how some people who have been furloughed don't want to go back to work. They have found a new life, and being paid 80% of your wages is quite a good deal. They must feel like I did when I retired, freedom to do what you like. It's hard to give it up when you have had a taste of it. 

I wonder if the Government thought of this when they devised the scheme. That people would find other things to do with their time, and be reluctant to make the change again and go back to work. The furlough scheme is set to end in September, but what is going to happen then? This article in the Sun doesn't seem to be able to answer that question, it's all very confusing.  

I suspect that in September the whole merry-go-round will start again with the Autumn flu on it's way in. I can't see an end to this. 

What's the weather going to do today? I'm waiting for a guaranteed sunny day to go off and do another walk. I've put extra clothes on, it's a bit chilly. Looking like a local walk this afternoon if it doesn't rain. 

Enjoy your Sunday. Thanks for popping in. Toodle pip.  ilona