Many employers will recognise that as it’s not your fault, you ought to get paid. Your contract may require them to, if you have fixed hours. This is easier for some bosses than others. Bigger organisations, for example, may be able to absorb ongoing staff costs but a small, local business might not. They might ask you to take unpaid leave or might be forced to make your post redundant, although you should still be paid for your notice period and any payment you are due by law, (see advice from ACAS here).

For people whose paid work will stop because premises have closed or the organisation has suspended services, they should explore what benefits they can access straight away. The government has said it wants to help but the welfare system is complex. It was already struggling to meet everyone’s needs as quickly as they needed it before Coronavirus. It is not totally clear what help is available for people who are not sick or self-isolating but unable to work.

For now, keep an eye on: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-support-for-employees-benefit-claimants-and-businesses

Also updates on Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/covid-19-guidance-for-employees#furloughed-workers