A union representing public sector workers has called for all Government employees in Wales to receive the same £500 ($A917) COVID-19 bonus that has been given to National Health Service and care staff.
Welsh leader of UNISON, Lianne Dallimore (pictured) said many low paid, mainly female Public Servants in the Principality, including school support staff, had been left hundreds of pounds worse off because of the costs of working from home.
“Nine out of 10 have not been reimbursed for these extra costs,” Ms Dallimore said.
“UNISON wants the Welsh Government to ensure no Public Service worker suffers detriment from the new ways of working,” she said.
Ms Dallimore said Public Service workers forced to work from home had met the costs of additional heating and electricity, telephone and broadband, home adaptation, and increased home insurance.
“The pandemic and lockdown haven’t affected everyone equally. Many of those who are low paid and working from home have been left struggling to survive,” she said.
“These people include Public Service workers who kept vital community services running throughout lockdown and ensured virtual learning could continue for school children.”
The union leader said the workers’ dedication to their jobs could not be questioned “yet UNISON has received reports from across Wales that these same workers are hundreds of pounds worse off because of home working”.
“The COVID bonus of £500 should be extended to all Public Servants and Council workers who played their part serving their community,” she said.
Cardiff, 15 June 2021
