Being forced back to work

[Icecreamdays]

Looking for advice for partner.
He was furloughed but received letter today saying he is to start back his usual nightshift position on Monday. He works in a large fabrication workshop. His employer says they are introducing safe working practice that he will be informed of on Monday at arrival. The only thing they were told is that the kitchen is not to be used so can’t cook hot meals or use the kettle. I don’t understand how he can be forced to do this when we are still in lockdown and he is not a key worker. Any advice appreciated

No kettles for a Nightshift ahhhh! If he has a flask though (if he is a coffee drinker) then that should keep it warm. I am curious though why they have closed it, I am guessing it's so people don't congregate or spend ages queueing?

The thing is, at the start, people were talking about schools and key workers children etc.

Apart from shops/leisure etc no other businesses were ever meant to shut down.

The government was taken aback by the amount that did. Hence furlough going to cost 50bn.

There were never meant to be any value judgements about your jobs. In any case (for example) my factory is making parts for ventilators, as are many others.

The only thing a company legally has to provide is drinkable water and access to a toilet. So kettles, cooking facilities etc are nice to haves rather than must haves.

What’s the problem with him going back to work?

Surely it is a good thing as long as they can ensure they are practicing safe distancing etc. I am due to return to work on Monday after 6 weeks off furloughed as well. I think it’s positive

What’s his problem his firm need to keep working or they may go bust.
And what is he fabricating might be something needed
He can always quit if he doesn’t like it.