At long last a new normal is emerging in workplaces across the UK, as the vaccine programme provides greater protection against the threat of coronavirus.
Over the past few weeks there’s been reports of people being forced back to their workplaces without proper consultation, even as Covid-19 cases remain high.
The success of the vaccine roll-out must not be used as an excuse to slack on safety in the workplace: it is still possible to catch and carry the virus.
The self-isolation payment scheme was meant to solve the problem of workers being unable to self-isolate. But a combination of strict criteria and low funding means that 7-in-10 applicants to the scheme are rejected.
The way we get out of this pandemic is to get everyone vaccinated as soon as possible. That’s how we make sure workplaces are safe and get the chance to start rebuilding our country.
Young workers suffer most in recessions - youth unemployment has long-term ‘scarring’ impacts and spells of unemployment as a young worker can lead to lower pay and more unemployment decades later. The TUC called for and outlined a Jobs Guarantee programme for young people as soon as the impact of the pandemic hit.
Workers at firms hard hit by the coronavirus lockdown are to continue to get wage subsidies, after the government bowed to pressure from trade unions and others.
Through the minimum wage and public sector pay awards the government controls the pay of more than six million key workers. They must give them a pay rise.
Current rates of statutory sick pay leave many workers facing an impossible choice between going to work ill or falling into debt. This needs to change.
Thousands of returning holidaymakers face hardship after being forced to go into quarantine. The government and employers must ensure that they are protected.
The workers who’ve kept the country running through the coronavirus crisis are too often underpaid, insecure and ignored. Let’s use this May Day to change that.
Strategies for dealing with the pandemic did not take account of the economic position of people in BME communities. Tragically, it took the pictures of those that had died to bring this truth into the spotlight.
Covid-19 means more people than ever before are working from home and having to adapt to a new space. But if you have a disability and rely on adjustments you are used to at work, this simple change can prevent you doing your job properly.