The second lockdown is here and many of you will be wondering where that leaves your job prospects, particularly if you’re out of work. We know the restrictions and regulations can be confusing and are constantly changing, so we’ve rounded up the key need-to-knows related to Lockdown 2 and jobs, complete with tips on looking for work during this period and coping strategies to help you stay positive and productive.


What the Lockdown means for jobs


From Thursday 5th November, the Government has ordered anyone able to work from home to do so. Where people cannot do so, such as people who work in critical national infrastructure and construction, as well as public sector employees working in essential services like childcare and education, they should continue going to work as normal.


The specific workplaces that have been required to shut are as follows:

  • Non-essential retail shops, such as clothing and homeware shops.
  • Hospitality venues such as cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars.
  • Accommodation such as hotels, hostels, guest houses and campsites.
  • Leisure and sports facilities
  • Personal care facilities such as hair and beauty salons.

So which industries are exempt?


The government has said that industries providing essential goods or services may operate as normal, such as:

  • Essential retail such as food shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, garden centres, hardware stores, building merchants and off-licences.
  • Storage and distribution facilities
  • Petrol Stations, car repair and MOT services, bicycle shops, and taxi and vehicle hire businesses.

If you’re looking for short-term work, these industries may be a good place to start.


HELP: Have you been affected by Covid-19? Find your Way to Work with Placed.


Furlough Scheme


As with Lockdown 1, companies that have been forced to close will be able to make use of the furlough scheme. Furlough was due to end this month to be replaced by the Job Support Scheme but has since been extended. If you’ve been put on furlough, you will receive 80% of your usual pay from the government. While furloughed you won’t be allowed to do any work for your employer, though you are allowed to do voluntary or freelance work. Find more info about furlough here.


Industries and companies still hiring


With many companies shutting down and unemployment figures rising, you might be tempted to give up and accept that you’re not going to be able to find work this side of Christmas. But it’s not all doom-and-gloom – there are thousands of industries and companies still hiring and the festive rush always provides a few part-time opportunities. Here’s some ideas for where to look:

  • Warehouses, sorting offices and factories
  • Care
  • Essential Retail – supermarkets, petrol stations, car hires
  • Delivery – many restaurants will be turning to delivery to stay open
  • Takeaway restaurants – if you’re a chef remember there are still plenty of places staying open for takeaway orders.

When it comes to specific companies, here are a few currently hiring through the Placed App. Follow them and you will receive an alert when they post a new job.

  • Iceland
  • Morrisons
  • Orchard Care
  • Manorcourt Homecare
  • Royal Mail.

How to cope during lockdown


Whether you’re in or out of work, Lockdown living can be difficult to deal with. But there are certain things you can do to prioritise your mental health and stay productive. Here are our top tips along with some recent articles we’ve produced that might help you.


  • Develop a routine and stick to it – set a sleep alarm to remind you when it’s time for bed
  • Stay connected through regular catch-ups with friends and family and by attending online events (there are plenty of remote events available this month tailored to help jobseekers upskill, reskill and feel positive)
  • Take regular breaks from working/job-seeking to keep yourself feeling refreshed
  • If you’re worried about money, contact a helpline like the Money Advice Service
  • Try to stay positive – better things are on the horizon – and don’t be too hard on yourself
  • If you can’t find work, then concentrate on what you can control – learn a new skill, get in touch with an old colleague, take a quiz on Placed.

What candidates are saying about Lockdown 2

“I think everyone is bored of lockdown, I don’t think it is the right answer (I am not a doctor or work for the government though, so there are probably very valid points for us to come back into lockdown!). I am just scared for Christmas and not be able to see my family and share some well deserved party time with my friends! But let’s stay positive and hope for the best next year!” – Justine Riboulet, Jobseeker and Placed Panelist.


“It’s so up in the air right now. Part of me is glad that I actually know what’s happening until December and that the rules won’t change within this month, the other part is desperate to get back to normal because my mental health is at breaking point and I fear the lockdown continuing for longer than we’ve been told.” – Annabel Frost, Jobseeker.


“For me what worries me is not knowing what is going to happen. I also don’t think the government has acknowledged the impact of lack of socialising and working from home has on your mental health. It doesn’t seem like they are doing anything to tackle this at all.” – Annabel Barker, Employed.