The following circular is an email that was sent out to all known UNISON members in social care who have consented to receive emails from the union. It is included for branches’ information.
This week, more evidence has shown that not enough is being done to protect care workers at work. Deaths due to coronavirus are too high among care workers and home care staff. I know these are not numbers to you. They are your colleagues and your friends which is why we are fighting harder than ever for you. We are demanding governments, employers and councils take urgent action to protect you. In this weeks’ email, we are asking for stories so we can take them to the government and make sure they are listening. There is also the chance to catch up on last weeks’ webinar for care workers and links to our help page.
UNISON’s coronavirus advice
We are living in uncertain times and you may many unanswered questions and concerns. For up to date information and answers to frequently asked questions, go to UNISON’s coronavirus hub.
We also have a specific webpage for care workers which is updated regularly. If you need advice about work, this is the first place to go here
Help us fight for you
We need to know what you face at work and what you need to stay safe. We will take this information to the government, to councils and to your employers to fight for the resource and help that you need to be safe at work.
Can you take our survey now, and help us to understand what you face and what you need? – Take the survey now
The information you provide will be completely confidential. It will not be shared with your employer and no information which might identify you will be shared.
We know you are busy at work and at home, but your response will help us campaign for safer working conditions for you and your colleagues. Thank you if you have already completed it.
CATCH UP: Information, advice and support sessions
On Wednesday, we hosted call-ins for care workers. It gave thousands of you the opportunity to ask our panel questions, hear the latest guidance and connect with care workers throughout the UK
If you weren’t able to join us, you can watch the video now here
If you are experiencing specific issues in your workplace, contact your local branch representative for support. unisonsupport@unisoncvob.org.uk
We are stronger together
Angela Rayner MP has reached out to encourage people to join a union. When Angela was a care worker, joining a union changed her life.
You’re in UNISON but are your colleagues
It is more important now than ever that care workers have the power of a union behind them. We know the government is not giving you the protection you need, so we need your colleagues to join you to make your workplaces strong.
Can you get your colleagues to join UNISON? We are stronger when we are together. Join here
You are not alone at work. UNISON is here for you and we are fighting every day to keep you safe at work and get you the pay you deserve.
Please look after yourself – we are always with you.
With best wishes
Jon Richards
National Secretary
Local Government, Police and Justice Section