Employment rights for 'vulnerable' cases?

[FelineUK]

Sorry in advance as no doubt there's answers for this already on MN...

DH is a supermarket delivery driver (Ocado) and is also at high risk, having diabetes and hypertension. In theory therefore he should self-isolate but I'm not quite sure where he stands in terms of getting any payments for this? I'm pretty sure he doesn't have any choice but to continue working as he can't just give up work for 3 months unless he has some financial assistance.

What's the ruling about people at risk self-isolating and their job?

I'm sure he's not alone - there must be tens of thousands of people out there who should self-isolate but can't afford to do so.

Thanks!

I'm the same, work in well known retail/ pharmacy and classed as high risk due to asthma and heart condition. I'm due back tomorrow as I have had the week off, and have no idea where I stand, so going to talk to them and see what they say!

@metheone - do keep me posted.. will be interesting to know what your company says.

There's such ambiguity around at the moment and it's difficult to know exactly what is the right information. My DH, when he told his company he's at 'risk' they simply told him to fill in a form and he could claim SSP on the 4th day - firstly, he's not sick but vulnerable, so he's just trying to ascertain what their policy is for 'vulnerable' staff which doesn't seem to be black or white. And secondly I think I'm right in saying that anyway, SSP is payable from day one now, not day four!!

I don't think staff, who have underlying health conditions, and who are therefore requesting to stay home, have any rights to do so as it's their choice at the end of the day. They might be able to take a couple of weeks paid leave etc. but anymore than normal holiday leave entitlement, then it would have to be unpaid leave, or basically resign to take those 3 months off at home!

I'm self-isolating but I can work from home so a much clearer situation.

My company have confirmed that those at high risk would get company sick pay (if eligible) or SSP (day 1) to self isolate for precaution now. It is their choice but we are having individual conversations and recommending they are not in work. WFH is priority for all too.

The measures announced to keep people being paid, didnt seem like it would cover this situation.

What deliveries is he making? Is it large deliveries to shops or ones to individual houses?

Can he isolate away from everyone while working. So stay in his can while its loaded and unloaded and not get out around anyone?

He delivers to individuals... takes public transport to/from work.

I think it's going to sick pay. Cant they give him a van so he doesnt have to take transport to work?

No, they can’t use company vehicles..

IIt's not as simple as you cant use company vehicles. Especially at the moment.

They can put something in place so he can. Companies are changing their usual ways of working all the time at the moment.

I can make use of our Van's, if needed. So it's possible to arrange and may head only reduce the risk to him.

Just trying to think of a way he can continue to get paid.