Covid-19 – what does it mean for employers?

This is an extremely difficult and uncertain time for everyone and advice is changing daily. As an employer, you may be unclear as to what responsibilities you have and actions you should take given the current Coronavirus / Covid-19 outbreak. Our employment department is currently advising on:-

• lay-off and short-time working,
• drafting a Covid-19 Policy document, 
• creating an absence table setting out the leave & pay for employees in certain situations, 
• your response and instructions to those staff who fall into one of the high-risk categories, 
• contractual sick pay obligations and SSP,
• medical evidence required from staff,
• employees who are pregnant or on maternity leave,
• definition of key workers, and 
• the new concept of ‘furloughing’ staff and drafting accompanying letters in connection with this.

If you have questions about any of these matters why not contact us and see how we can assist you. 

It is vital that all employers consider their duty of care to all staff, and especially those who are over 70 or are in vulnerable categories such as being pregnant or at high risk. Employers should issue communications to keep everyone updated on actions being taken to reduce risks of exposure in the workplace, encourage increased levels of hygiene and ensure Government guidance is being followed.  Many businesses will be able to facilitate home working in full or part.

Finally, it is imperative that employers keep up to date with the latest information and advice as this is a very fluid situation which is changing on a daily basis.

More information is available on the gov.uk website https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-employers-and-businesses-about-covid-19/guidance-for-employers-and-businesses-on-coronavirus-covid-19  and this will be updated if guidance changes.

Should you or your business require employment law advice at this difficult time then please don’t hesitate to contact us. For more information, visit us at Employment Law