Dear all,
Last night the Prime Minister and the First Minister of Scotland announced the most significant measures so far in the UK's fight to contain the Covid-19 pandemic.
The UK has enforced a 'lock down' initially for a period of 3 weeks.
From last night people must stay at home except for:
- Shopping for necessities
- Exercise for a maximum of once per day, while maintaining a distance from others of at least 2 metres
- For a medical need, either to receive or to deliver care
- Travelling to and from work
It has also been announced that the police now have powers to enforce these measures by dispersing gatherings and through fines.
The role of ASCO and its workforce has been defined by the Government as essential work; many of you are considered to be 'key workers'. This is because we provide -
"Transport
This includes those who will keep the air, water, road and rail passenger and freight transport modes operating during the COVID-19 response, including those working on transport systems through which supply chains pass.
Utilities, communication and financial services
… the oil, gas, electricity and water sectors (including sewerage)…"
You can continue to attend work if you are unable to work from home.
I am very conscious of those of you who continue to physically attend work and recognise that you may have a concern that some people are able to work from home whilst others cannot.
Please be assured that ASCO is following the guidance and rules laid out by the Government in doing our part to limit the spread of the virus.
People who can work from home are doing so as instructed, and assessments and guidance are in place for all staff about social distancing, particularly in the case of identifying suitable controls for those identified as being in a vulnerable group. We will monitor and review these arrangements closely over the coming days and weeks.
If you have any concerns about coming into work at this very challenging time, I urge you to make your line manager aware and to seek support from our HR teams. You can also seek further advice by emailing zzRM-COVID-19@ascoworld.com.
Please also remember the completely free and confidential 24/7 counselling service, to retrieve the details please get in touch with HR.
Many industries are continuing to operate their factories or facilities to deliver vital goods and services, food and beverage, specialist equipment for the health industry, petrol stations, supermarkets and of course health workers and support staff. ASCO is one of these critically important industries that will help all of the above continue to do what they do.
We need to continue to provide our service as long as possible without increasing unnecessary risk. We need to observe the social distancing protocols and we need to make sure that we clean working areas properly. If you can work from home then please do so and if you are required on site due to the physical work required or you are driving a vehicle please implement all of the safety advice to reduce the spread of the virus.
Thank you for your continued support during these difficult times.
Kind regards,
Nicola Smith
Group HR Director