...where health conditions have prevented them from working or attending the workplace during the pandemic.
Extensions to the Access to Work Scheme
Updates to the Scheme include the provision of:
- grant funding to pay for special equipment needed to support homeworking during the pandemic such as a screen reader, video remote interpreting or support worker services
- financial support for things such as taxi fares where travelling to work is not a safe option during the pandemic due to an employee's health condition
- a tailored mental health support package for up to nine months where an employee is anxious about returning to work
Those who are clinically extremely vulnerable can get new applications for grant funding fast-tracked.
Best Practice for Employers
Now that shielding has been paused in England and Wales, employers may be in discussions with staff about how to facilitate their return to work. As part of these conversations, it may be sensible to explore what assistance, if any, might be available through the Scheme, although please note the employee needs to apply for support directly.
For specialist legal advice regarding employees who have been shielding returning to work, please contact a member of our Employment Law team, or complete the form below.