FURTHER EDUCATION: Guidance has been issued about how colleges should handle Cornonavirus related absence and leave.
Key points are:
Employees who have followed NHS guidance and have self-isolated and are unable to work from home will be granted paid leave
Absence for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and confirmed cases will be treated as special leave and not offset against sickness entitlement.
Where staff can work remotely, they should do so. Where this is not possible due to the nature of their work or caring responsibilities, then paid special leave will be granted.
Discussions around contracted staff are continuing.