Reference for landlord.

[Catworrier]

I've been asked to provide a reference for a landlord for one of my staff members. However financially they aren't able to return to work straight from furlough.
They are also currently on furlough and still in their probation.

I wouldn't feel comfortable saying to the staff member I can't do it. It's a very fragile time at the moment and he is valued and wanted. And I feel like if I say no it will shit on his plans to move in with his partner and child.

But at the same time he is in a delicate situation.

I wouldn't want to take someone on who is at risk of losing their job. (Not because I want him gone. But because of business cuts)

What would you do?

My thoughts are to write a reference but state he is on furlough and probation.

I wouldnt mention probation, but mentioning their start date should give an indication that the job is fairly new.
Do salary slips show the furlough? In which case you dont need to mention that either?
Basically, I wouldn't write anything that could come back as stopping the rental going ahead.
In none covid times I'd expect something like
Mr B Good has worked for Excellent Company as Chief Money Maker since 30 February 2020. His starting salary was £123,456.

The probation has been extended. And that was before furlough started.
Do landlords ask for payslips then? Cos yes, that would indicate furlough.

Can it come back to bite me if they get the wrong information?

You are providing a reference, not gauranteeing the rent. Just stick to the facts. You seem to be assuming that this person will not be able to pay the rent - you dont know that. The reference is just to confirm their employment.

You aren't confirming any income.

You have known him since start date and that he is on probation.

That's all that is needed.

Let the landlord decide any risk.