How to play this situation

brightondave

Hi, I have worked for a major employer for the last 7 years as a vehicle parts delivery driver in my mid 60s, my wife is 72 and is extremely worried about the situation at the moment and after watching Boris last night I feel ( to my wife's relief) that I shouldn't go into work mixing with staff and customers for fear of 'bringing something home'.
Is there any way of putting the 'situation' to my workplace?as I feel the situation is only going to get worse.
I recently cut my hours down to 3 days per week and am shortly to be in receipt of state pension.
Any advice is appreciated

[Deleted User]

You need to ask your employer if you are a key worker and need to come in. If not then ask them about furlough and what you can expect.

mwarby

I'd say its a wider issue than just you or your wife. I'd say that I was concerned about the lack of distancing, and could during this crisis more measures be taken to limit contact. I mean they could oragnise your pickup and deliveries to be contactless, eg you stay in van until you get a txt or similar to say there something to be delivered, your drop outside return to van and call to confirm delivery

calcotti

See https://www.acas.org.uk/coronavirus/good-practice-steps-for-employers

The job retention scheme is for employees who are who are at risk of redundancy due to coronavirus affecting the employer’s business.

if you wish to protect your health by being absent from work you have no right to be paid.

if necessary look at eligibility for Universal Credit https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/universal-credit/

there are benefit calculators here https://www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

Linton

Talk to your manager or HR department and tell them that your wife is higher risk because of her age and that your mixing with other people would add to that risk.  Dont just say she or you are worried - use facts rather than emotions.  Ask them what they can do to help.  I would hope a major employer would act responsibly and do not think you should be thinking about "clever" ploys.