COVID-19

Please find the latest advice from Thompsons Solicitors in this briefing.

The POA have for many years offered members valuable Life insurance cover. This has paid out several millions of pounds over the years to the families of members who have sadly prematurely lost their lives.

The Ministry of Justice on the 5th May 2020 released the following figures as of 17:00 hours on Monday 4th May:

Please find enclosed a joint letter from Sir Simon Stevens, NHS Chief Executive and Amanda Pritchard, NHS Chief Operating Officer, outlining the second phase of NHS response to COVID-19.

Please find enclosed report from Public Health England which was commissioned by CEO Jo Farrar.

It is International Workers Memorial Day today 28th April 2020 and each year all around the world the trade union movement holds a minute silence at 11am to remember those who have lost their lives at work, or from work related injury and diseases. Workers Memorial Day is commemorated around the world and is officially recognised by the UK Government.

We just wanted to take this opportunity to pass on our thanks, firstly to your Scottish National Committee for the work they are doing on your behalf each day, and ultimately to you the membership for the incredible work you are all doing in dealing with the unprecedented circumstances being faced by everyone inside our Prisons.

We will continue to update you as regularly as we can during these ever-changing times. Please ensure all POA members have access to this circular.

At the time of writing this update I have to report that unfortunately another colleague has sadly lost their battle against COVID-19 and my thoughts and prayers during this tragic time are with family, friends and colleagues. Out of respect I will not be naming our colleague at this moment in time until I am officially permitted to do so.

Enclosed is guidance to follow if staff are threatened by Prisoners who cough or spit at them during the COVID outbreak.