COVID-19 Direct Payments

Is my PA classed as a critical worker?

YES

My PA is sick and can't work

The PA will qualify for Statutory Sick Pay if their average earnings are at least £123 per week (calculated over an 8 week period). However, those who are ineligible are able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance depending on their personal circumstances.

My PA is sick and self-isolating

The PA will qualify for Statutory Sick Pay if their average earnings are at least £123 per week (calculated over an 8 week period). However, those who are ineligible are able to claim Universal Credit and/or contributory Employment and Support Allowance depending on their personal circumstances.

My PA is not sick and able to work but I am self-isolating

The PA must be paid their contracted hours

Where the PA has capacity to support other vulnerable people, the PA should contact Plymouth City Council on 01752 668000

My PA can work and I am not self-isolating                                            

If your PA can work, they should carry on fulfilling their caring duties.

You and your PA must follow the Health and Safety new rules and procedures very seriously and implement them based on government guidance. This is for yours and their protection as well as reducing the risk of infection to other people.

PPE Use

• General PPE: gloves, masks, sanitiser gel and aprons
• Bodily fluids: plastic aprons, fluid resistant surgical masks, eye protection and gloves are recommended

Employer Responsibility

• You must ensure that employee(s)' are adequately protected with PPE as per the government and Public Health England guidance.

Access to PPE

Employers should ensure that the necessary PPE is available for their PA's to use.  Refer issues with access to  PPE to Enham, the support service provider, and issues with funding to Plymouth City Council.

Access to free PPE has been extended until March 2023.

General Control Measures

• Personal assistants and care workers should follow Advice on appropriate hand hygiene
• Increased cleaning activity: use the usual household products such as detergents and bleach because these will be very effective at getting rid of the virus on surfaces
• Frequently touched surfaces should be cleaned regularly
• Keep the property ventilated by opening windows whenever safe
• Stay Alert/Stay Safe
• Face coverings or PPE should not be put in a recycling bin or dropped as litter.  Please dispose in  a 'black bag' waste bin or litter bin

Self-Isolating

• You may use your Direct Payment funding in a more flexible way to prioritise essential tasks like:
  • Personal hygiene
  • Hygienic cleaning
  • Clothes washing
  • Food preparation