Key worker in corner shop

nbyd

I'm classed as a key worker in my local convenience store , I have a 7yo at home with no local school opening. I am terrified of catching it and bringing it home. My parents both have COPD. Can I take unpaid leave or will I have to quit? He hasnt reduced hours or doesnt taking proper procedures. Thanks 

mwarby

Are you living with your parents ?

AFAIK your 7 year old is in quite a low risk group(age wise)

calcotti

You'll have to a ask your employer.

poppy12345

If you don't live with your parents then there will be no risk to them because you shouldn't be visiting them, they should be isolation for 12 weeks.

nbyd

My 7 yo is at risk EVERY person is at risk of this!! My parents would usually look after my child as my workplace works right into night time which I am required to do. My employer is telling me I still have to show up to work my hours put out for me if I do go to work my child has none to look after her? Can he sack me? 

7Phil

A convenience store worker is not a "key worker". Convenience stores are allowed to stay open but are not exempt from following government advice.

If you can't go to work because you need to care for your child then you should stay home.
All employers should encourage their staff to stay at home if possible. You can only get SSP for staying at home but you will keep your job if you are covered by SSP.

nbyd

Thanks 7Phil I was very worried about it he told me he will be staying open as he cant afford to pay us as furlough if he closes so he will be open. I'm happy to take unpaid leave atm as long as the job is there when everything is over I explained that to him but he laughed 

mwarby

Your 7 year old is at risk of catching it yes, but AFAIK is in a low risk group when it comes to complications and death. As others have said its not ideal your parents looking after him, as it does pose the risk of your child pass on the virus to people at risk of complications and death.

I would also expect that your parents would struggle to have your child full time, not just when you are working, having the child move between 2 households, one being very high risk is a bad idea

It does sound like to me you are best not working. To me its unlikey you would be furloughed given the scheme is to prevent people being made redundant(your not at risk of redundancy, your just unable to work)