COVID-19 Update 3As I said in my earlier emails, the current situation with COVID-19 is fast moving and we are adopting guidance as it comes through from the government. I am writing today to give you the latest information following the decisions made by the government yesterday. This email will update you with guidance on:
Latest Government Guidance on IsolationWe fully support the implementation of the government's latest guidance on self isolation and we support staff in putting this advice into practice. The below summarises the guidance, which we are now asking line managers and our staff at the Trust to implement. Symptoms The most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are recent onset of:
For most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild infection. Key messages from the government
The manager's guidance that we have previously issued and is available on the intranet is still valid and should be followed in relation to reporting and recording of absences. Team Based Assessment ExerciseThere has been speculation about the future actions that the government may take in relation to social distancing measures, including the closure of schools and colleges. We have no further guidance at this time as to whether this will happen or when the government may take such steps. However, in preparation for this possible eventuality, we will be undertaking an assessment via line managers and team leaders of all services over the coming week of the caring responsibilities of staff, the ability to work flexibly and alternative solutions that staff may be able to offer to ensure that services can keep running for our service users. This assessment exercise will be undertaken through the Directorate structures and we would ask that you work with your line managers to complete this assessment. Meetings, Events & GatheringsWe have received guidance from a range of external bodies about steps being taken to limit large gatherings such as educational and training conferences, meetings and other gatherings. In many cases, national bodies have now cancelled or advised cancellation of such events. Following discussion, the Executive Team have made the decision that for a four-week period - Monday 16th March 2020 to Sunday 12th April 2020 inclusive - that all internal events, in-person training and conferences will be stood down. Individual team meetings and MDTs should stlil go ahead as normal. If you were scheduled to attend an event during this time then, instead, you should attend work as normal and inform your line manager. These measures will allow us to ensure cover is available for teams, should we have a number of staff who are unavailable due to isolation over the coming month. This position will be reviewed on a regular basis with reference to national guidance and staffing levels across the Trust. If you have any questions on any of the above, please email our dedicated address: covid.questions@combined.nhs.uk |