On the publication of government guidance on exemptions from
self-isolation for critical workers, Cllr James Jamieson,
Chairman of the Local Government Association, said:
“Councils continue to work hard to try
and keep services running as best as possible, while protecting
the health and wellbeing of our workforce. However,
the large numbers of close contacts
being required to self-isolate is having an impact on some
council services due to staff
shortages.
“Directors of public health, working in
councils, are already under huge pressure as a result of the need
to sign off on self-isolation exemptions for social care staff as
well as many daily enquiries from other employers in their local
area who believe their staff should be exempt. Clarity is
urgently needed about what their role will be with regards to the
application of exemptions locally while messaging from government
must be crystal clear to avoid raising unrealistic expectations.
The exemption approval process must also be quick and clear to
understand.
“While we continue to discuss with
government the implications of this guidance for local
government, it appears it will not help alleviate the pressure on
some important - albeit non-critical - local services. Residents
will need to bear with us if they experience disruption to some
services, if councils are forced to prioritise services that
protect the most vulnerable in their
communities.”
