We’re receiving numerous calls from members concerned about COVID-19 and its potential implications for work. Below you’ll find answers to the key questions.
Remember, you can call the union’s Advice Team 24 hours a day on 01234 262868 if you have any further questions.
Should I still be paid if I have to self-isolate?
You should only self-isolate on the advice of the NHS or with the agreement of your manager, which should be confirmed in writing. Do not rely on telephone or other conversations that can be denied at a later stage. You will need to be able to explain to your manager why you need to self-isolate and your manager is unlikely to agree unless you have a good reason to justify it.
There’s no legal obligation on the Bank to pay you if you are not sick, although employers are being urged to treat people who are in isolation as though they were on paid sick leave or on annual leave, so that they are still paid for the period of self-isolation. It is however likely that you would qualify for Statutory Sick Pay but it would be irresponsible for Lloyds to force staff who need to self-isolate to claim SSP which they will not be able to afford. This would force the majority to attend work.
It’s in the interests of businesses to allow staff to self-isolate (assuming there’s a justifiable reason), to prevent the potential spread of the virus to other employees. If the Bank refuses to allow you to self-isolate and you’ve given a justifiable reason for isolating, please contact us for further advice on 01234 262868 (Choose Option 1).
Should I still be paid if I catch COVID-19?
In this situation, you should be paid in accordance with the sick pay policy. You should let the Bank know as soon as possible if you are unable to work because you have caught COVID-19. Please also ring us right away on 01234 262868 (Choose Option 1).
Should I still be paid if I’m not sick, but the Bank tells me not to come to work?
Yes, you should still receive your pay, but make sure that your manager confirms the instruction not to attend work in writing. Again, do not rely on telephone or other conversations that can be denied at a later stage.
Should I still be paid if I have to look after someone?
You are entitled to take emergency time-off to care for a dependant, but there is no statutory right to be paid for this time. For example, you may have to take time-off if your child’s school closes or a dependant becomes sick with COVID-19. If you need further advice, please contact us for further advice on 01234 262868 (Choose Option 1).
I’m worried about going to work and catching COVID-19 – do I have to go in?
If you have any concerns, you should discuss them with us and with your manager to see if a resolution can be found. For example, the Bank may be in a position to allow you to work from home or take annual leave. However, you should not refuse to attend work, because you may be subject to disciplinary action as a result. You can request annual or unpaid leave, but the Bank is not obliged to allow you to take leave.
If the Bank has to close my place of work, will I still be paid?
At the moment, this is highly unlikely but if it should happen, you should still be paid (unless your contract of employment says otherwise). If you’re in this position, please contact us for further advice on 01234 262868 (Choose Option 1).
You can read the Government’s latest information and advice on COVID-19, which is updated daily at 2pm, here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public
If you have any other questions, please contact the Union’s 24 hour Advice team on 01234 262868 (Choose Option 1) or email 24hours@btuonline.co.uk.