Coronavirus Update for Inverclyde Council Members

Colleagues

Please find an update briefing now that the 12 week self isolation period is due to end.

Members who are self-isolating because they have underlying health problems (now referred to as clinically vulnerable) or live with some who has underlying health problems can return to work after next Thursday. This also applies to members who are living with someone who is shielding (extremely clinically vulnerable). However any member who is themselves shielding and has been issued with a shielding letter should not return to work.

A risk assessment should be carried out for any member returning to work after self-isolating for 12 weeks. The template for these have been drawn up by the H&S team.

Members who are clinically vulnerable including members who are pregnant, can and should continue to work from home if they can. However this may prove difficult for members working in certain jobs.

If clinically vulnerable members are returning to work then arrangements should be in place to ensure they can maintain 2m social distancing. If this is not possible then there needs to be a discussion with the line manager to ensure that there is minimal risk and this may require adjustments to be put in place. In any event a risk assessment is required for any clinical vulnerable member who may be returning to work.

Members who feel significantly anxious about returning to work to the point that it is making them feel unwell should speak to their manager to discuss other possible solutions. This may include a delay in returning to work where appropriate. There may also be a referral to occupational health in these circumstances.

Robin Taggart
Branch Secretary
Unison (Inverclyde Branch)
Old Library
30 Bawhirley Road,
Greenock
PA15 2BH