Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The COVID-19 situation is very fluid and changing hourly. We are monitoring Public Health England for up-to-date information.

Employee Health and Safety Obligations

Please remember the following key legal requirements:

1. Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 mandates employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees and clients.
2. Section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employees to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions at work.
3. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must conduct a suitable and sufficient assessment of:
   • (a) the risk to employee health and safety while at work;
   • (b) the risk to the health and safety of non-employees arising from the employer’s activities.

If you have specific issues with your employer or develop symptoms as described by Public Health England, self-isolation is mandatory to prevent spreading the virus to colleagues, friends, family and customers.

Support from Workers of England Union (WEU)

During these challenging times, the WEU has been responding to enquiries via phone and email. If you have any concerns about your rights or working conditions, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For guidance on COVID-19 workplace risk assessments, see our detailed risk assessment guide.

Furlough Scheme Information

We have received numerous questions regarding the furlough scheme. This is a new scheme and many employers are still learning how it operates. For more information, visit the official UK government guidance.

You can also read our article on Furlough Scheme Guidance for practical tips and FAQs.

Additional Resources

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): UK Government Response
• Organisations: Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England
• Protect Yourself & NHS Medical Help
• Guidance for Employers & Businesses
• Current UK COVID-19 Case Numbers & Risk

We hope you and your families stay safe during this time.

Kind regards,
Stephen Morris