
The latest Government guidance has declared that extremely clinically vulnerable people no longer need to shield from 1 April 2021.
The guidance clarifies that from 1 April 2021 those who are extremely vulnerable:
- should continue to work from home where possible
- should go to work where they cannot work from home
- are no longer eligible for statutory sick pay
- are still eligible for furlough until 30 September when the furlough scheme ends.
The guidance clarifies that employers will need to continue to manage the COVID risk in the workplace whilst the Health and Safety Executive and/or local authorities will be responsible for dealing with complaints by staff where they believe that their employer is failing to provide adequate protection.
Legally, extremely vulnerable employees also have the right to refuse to attend work – and are protected from dismissal – if they reasonably believe that their workplace is unsafe.
Employers can find more information on how to protect vulnerable workers here and understand what to include in their COVID-19 risk assessment here. Consultation with staff will remain key to managing a successful return to work for those who remain working at home.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at Harmony HR Solutions