Commenting on government guidance published today (Wednesday) that staff and volunteers in care homes must be fully vaccinated unless exempt, UNISON head of business and community Donna Rowe-Merriman said:
“Yet again the government is creating confusion where clarity is needed. Staff still don’t know if they’re exempt, which is causing anxiety and prompting concerns they’ll lose their jobs.
“Care employers don’t want compulsory vaccinations, nor do unions. Ministers should be listening to them instead of imposing coercive measures.
“This draconian approach will do more harm than good in a sector already short of thousands and thousands of care staff. This ill-advised approach risks driving much-needed staff away.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk