To identify these individuals, the Government used a new COVID-19 Population Risk Assessment algorithm. This algorithm analyses a combination of risk factors including age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index, specific health conditions and postcode. This change aims to address the adverse impact of inequalities and disparities following Public Health England's findings including:
Employers should be mindful of their workforce and identify any additional employees who now fall within the 'clinically extremely vulnerable' category, liaising with those employees to make arrangements to comply with the government guidance.
Clinically extremely vulnerable individuals are advised to work from home, but if they cannot work from home they should not attend work. Employers may need to agree alternative arrangements with these individuals, or consider furlough where appropriate.
We can assist with providing relevant advice to comply with the changing government guidance and drafting the necessary documentation.