Responding to the health secretary’s announcement today (Tuesday) about reducing the need to self-isolate for people who’ve had two vaccinations, UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said:
“There’s a woeful lack of detail about how this will operate and how it affects health and care workers. Infections can still be passed on by those who’ve been jabbed but show no symptoms.
“There are now more questions than answers. This announcement has simply created more confusion.
“If everyone’s got to learn to live with the virus, the government must ensure a proper system of sick pay. It’s plain wrong that thousands of workers are expected to survive on a pittance when they’re ill.
“A properly resourced test and trace system is also essential if there’s to be any hope of keeping on top of infection spread.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services – in the NHS, local government, education, police service and energy. They are employed in both the public and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Anthony Barnes M: 07834 864794 E: a.barnes@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk