The updated guidance will be sent by letter to individuals on a shielding patient list over the next two weeks.
The notification letter states that, from 1 April 2021, vulnerable people will no longer be advised to shield and will not be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay on the basis of being advised to shield. They should continue to work from home where possible. If they cannot work from home, they are advised to attend their workplace.
The letter also notes that employers are required to take steps to reduce the risk of exposure to coronavirus in the workplace and should be able to explain the measures they put in place to keep employees safe at work.
The guidance set out at the end of the letter states that clinically extremely vulnerable people may wish to consider avoiding rush hour public transportation times, whilst commuting to work.
The current shielding guidance is yet to be updated and does not reflect the position in the latest announcement. We expect this guidance to be updated shortly.