WIREDGOV

This week has seen the government calling for office workers to return to work to stimulate city trade in the form of restaurants, shops etc. I'm sure we all want to get back to work as soon as possible but there are many people still worried about taking too many risks whilst in some of our areas the infection rates are still too high.

Just getting to and from work can be a major problem for many town and city workers, and employers could help to boost confidence by publishing their risk assessments so that workers know that every precaution has been taken to lessen the risk. There are also people who because of the pandemic have issues with childcare, shielding vulnerable relatives etc, so it's not a one size fits all.

As the furlough scheme begins to end in late October, we are calling on the government to extend to those industries and sectors that are still going to struggle to get up and running again even though they have solid businesses ready to go when the risk reduces. We are also involved in the Kickstart job scheme aimed at young workers displaced by the pandemic and in need of help finding a job/training scheme to get back to work. Regional employers are starting to discuss what this means in our region and we will be seeking good terms and conditions and provision of good training.

We must work together with government and business and really give our young people a helping hand at this very precarious time. I must thank my colleagues in the office who have kept everything going, allowing me to have a restful break.

Solidarity and keep safe and well.

Bill Adams
Regional secretary
TUC Yorkshire and the Humber