Commenting on new research published today (Friday) by the Institute for Public Policy Research into sick pay provision, UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
“The pandemic has shown how sick pay needs a complete overhaul. Often those earning the least either don’t qualify or face such a steep drop in income that they’re forced to carry on working when they shouldn’t.
“Those who’re sick or isolating should be given their proper pay rate as soon as they’re ill. That’s the way to stop those on poverty wages, such as care workers, either struggling to fill the financial hole or continuing to work when it isn’t safe.”
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.
