Yes. But normal permissions from employers would still be needed, I'd have thought - because you are still technically in employment.
It's just the government are paying upto 80% of the wages.
I'm furloughed at present. I've been told I'm not technically allowed to perform any work for the company while under that status, but I am allowed to do unpaid voluntary work (for anybody else).
It wouldn't be in the spirit of the scheme to do anything other than CV19 related releif work though
Three things though - it is likely that any filming won't take place until after the government backed furloughing period comes to an end.
Secondly if you're filming every weekend you're likely to be having to take some leave in the week (if you're employed Mon-Fri) anyway just to have a break (and in the case of Bake Off, practice).
Finally Bake Off isn't work. I suspect they get travel expenses and put up each weekend but unlike shows that films in a block they may not get money back to cover rent and bills if it is expected they'll work during the week. That might change if they film in a block. On top of that I don't think there is a prize of any note.
That's correct Brekkie. Only travel/accommodation expenses are covered. Contestants also get an allowance per show but it's not much and basically just covers the cost of ingredients.
On the other hand, RuPaul's Drag Race UK shoots in a two week block and covers a lot more in terms of living expenses. However unlike Bake Off contestants do not get compensated for materials to make their outfits.
