The rapid spread of the coronavirus and subsequent COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many of us live and work, and has resulted in deaths and widespread illness across the UK.
The resulting crisis has caused uncertainty and upheaval for many people in terms of illness and work-related issues. Thompsons is here to help you understand your rights and to provide the information you need.
How coronavirus has affected us
As a result of the fast escalation of COVID-19 cases and the fact that clinical knowledge on its transmission and long-term effects were largely unknown at the outset, the country, and indeed many parts of the globe, went into 'lockdown'. This resulted in restrictions on work, travel, education, and general lifestyle.
While the main focus for the nation has been in trying to stop the spread of the virus, helping the NHS, and saving lives, many ordinary people have been adversely affected as a result of the pandemic.
When the restrictions are lifted, employers will need to make sure their employees can stay safe at work; this could mean providing enhanced washing and sanitising facilities, introducing split shifts, and installing physical distancing and protection methods.
The Thompsons COVID-19 Hub
In terms of your rights and the law, the effects of the coronavirus broadly fall into two main areas - Your Safety and Your Employment Rights.
YOUR SAFETY
Almost everyone has been affected in some way by coronavirus and we still don't know everything there is to know about COVID-19. Healthcare professionals had to learn how to care for COVID-19 patients urgently and scientists are still trying to get to grips with a vaccine.
Thompsons Solicitors in Scotland has gathered together information on the disease, your rights and how the pandemic may affect you in the future.
Click on the boxes below to find out more.
YOUR EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS
The country-wide lockdown and effects of social distancing meant many businesses had to shut down temporarily, and there was massive loss of revenue across a hugely diverse range of business-types.
While the government quickly put in place a series of measures to help businesses and their employees, not everyone's job was safe. Many workers found themselves furloughed, taking a pay cut or, sadly, losing their jobs altogether as a result of COVID-19.
Click on the boxes below for more information from Thompsons.
