Martin Ford 16 December 2020

One in nine care workers not tested weekly

A government pledge to test all care home staff every seven days is not being met, according to a survey published today.

The trade union Unison found 11% of care workers looking after people aged over 65 and those with dementia had not been given regular swab checks.

Ministers previously pledged that staff would be tested every seven days.

Unison's claim is based on a survey of nearly 13,000 care staff, including those working in residential care, hospices and homecare.

One in ten (10%) also waited more than 72 hours for results, leading to some having to take unpaid leave or sick pay due to the delay.

In addition, 40% of staff had been unable to get a test within the previous four weeks.

Unison assistant general secretary, Christina McAnea, said: ‘Delays and lack of access to testing is putting workers, their families and the people who depend on them at risk.

‘The Government must get a grip on testing, honour its promises and ensure care staff have proper access to checks.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said further regular testing had been rolled out since the survey.

They added: ‘From the start of the pandemic we have been doing everything we can to keep care home staff protected including providing free priority testing and personal protective equipment.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner