Eluned Morgan Minister for Health and Social Services
Julie Morgan Deputy Minister for Social Services
The Covid-19 Statutory Sick Pay Enhancement scheme comes to an end on 31 August 2022. This scheme has provided £8.2m of financial support to the social care workforce between November 2020 and June 2022.
The scheme has ensured social care workers who were required to self-isolate or stay home due to Covid received full pay. This has been an important support to the social care workforce and to infection prevention for some of our most vulnerable citizens through the heights of the pandemic.
Recent evidence from the ONS Coronavirus Infection Survey suggests the prevalence of Covid-19 in the community is currently decreasing. We are reviewing the asymptomatic testing of social care staff, and we will make an announcement shortly.
Frontline social care staff and residents in care homes for older adults are being prioritised for the Covid-19 autumn booster, which is being rolled out from the beginning of September. This will provide social care staff and our most vulnerable citizens with increased protection.
As we begin our transition from a period of pandemic emergency response to recovery, it is appropriate we bring this temporary scheme to an end. Consequential funding from the UK Government for the Covid response has ceased.
For further information visit Written Statement: Covid-19 Statutory Sick Pay Enhancement Scheme (26 August 2022) | GOV.WALES