Can I work for myself while I’m off on furlough from my actual job?

[Acunningplanmlord]

When we went on furlough our agreement with work said that we shouldn’t undertake any work while on furlough. While I’ve been off I’ve set myself up making occasion cakes and selling them, I’m really quite busy! But it’s just occurred to me, is that ok while I’m on furlough?

I’ve found this

sasdaniels.co.uk/blog/2020/06/02/can-employees-take-a-second-job-during-furlough-leave/

It depends whether or not it’s a breach of your contract with your employer. If they’ve required you not to work for anyone else during working hours it will be a breach. If you have an enforceable restriction on your activities outside working hours in your contract it will also be a breach.

The furlough agreement says not to undertake any work while on furlough. I just thought it meant work for another employer. I’ll have to check the contract.

Could your employer see it as a conflict of interest? Do they provide similar services?