Get ‘in the know’ with the latest COVID-19 Government Guidelines
March 1, 2022
As the government guidelines begin to change, we wanted to update you on exactly what has changed.
So, let us share with you our update of all things COVID-19 and how this affects you in the workplace.
From 24 February 2022:-
- There is now no legal obligation to self-isolate in England after testing positive for COVID-19.
- There is no legal obligation to self-isolate if you are an unvaccinated close contact and will no longer be advised to test for 7 days if you are a fully vaccinated close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Guidance
Guidance will remain in place for people who test positive for COVID-19 to stay at home and avoid contact with people for at least 5 full days. For employers, the guidance is due to be updated to reflect the PM’s latest changes and can be accessed here.
We would advise employers to continue to follow the guidelines and ensure their employees do the same until the 1st April 2022, when the guidance is set to end.
It’s important that you must consider individuals who are clinically extremely vulnerable or concerned about legal restrictions coming to an end. By doing this you will be able to overcome any difficulties in the workplace.
Sick pay
Day one SSP and COVID-19 provisions for SSP will end from 24 March 2022.
From 24 March 2022, when employees need to self-isolate, employers will need to pay their staff to stay away from work. Furthermore, working from home may be an option and, those who display symptoms and are unwell would be entitled to SSP which means they are going back to the previous ill policy.
Testing
Following the government’s announcement, from 1st April, COVID tests will no longer be free for most individuals. If employers insist their employees either test or self-isolate if they test positive, they will need to make testing kits available.
For any further help on COVID-19, please get in contact with me here or email me on hello@tercushr.co.uk.
