Plans to scrap the UK Government mandated compulsory vaccinations for health and social care staff in England were announced earlier this year.
The implementation of mandatory vaccines sparked criticism and concerns about serious staff shortages in the health and care sector. A consultation followed and the results can be found here.
Current regulations require CQC registered persons only permit those who are vaccinated against COVID-19, unless otherwise exempt, to be deployed for the provision of CQC-regulated activity in health and/or social care, and to enter CQC registered care home premises.
As a result of the consultation, these regulations will end on 15th March.
What does this mean for employers?
It means that from 15th March, it will no longer be a legal requirement that health and social care staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The government is however saying that it is a professional responsibility to be fully vaccinated.
Employers can still implement their own policy which requires employees to be vaccinated but would be wise to seek professional HR advice.
Similarly, if you run a business in the health and care sector and have questions about the rehiring of staff that were dismissed in line with the current regulations, please contact your local HR Dept. This is a complex HR issue and professional advice is recommended to keep your processes in line with employment law.
The HR Dept Wimbledon and New Malden (covering areas such as Wimbledon, Wimbledon Village, South Wimbledon, Norbiton, New Malden, Motspur Park and Merton) provides employment law and human resources…
