As an NHS worker, I know firsthand how our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic has been unrelenting. It is a battle that takes its toll both physically and mentally. We face the risk of being infected, and when we do, our policy dictates that we stay off work until we test negative. However, such leaves, enforced out of public health necessity, are unfortunately recorded on our performance record, potentially leading to disciplinary action.

Previously we where asked to come in if we feel well enough, I believe this is also wrong. As we could spread COVID to other staff and vounrable patients. 

We are proposing a separate classification, namely 'Special COVID Sickness Leave', for all past, present, and future COVID-19 related absences, exempt from ordinary sickness management or recording. A similar policy was recently implemented in New Zealand's healthcare system where they established a separate COVID-19 leave scheme for healthcare workers (New Zealand Government Gazette, 2020).

As of January 2022, over 1.4 million NHS workers in the UK are continued to be engaged directly in patient care, facing exposure to the virus (NHS Workforce Statistics - January 2022). It is unjust for those of us who are at the forefront in the battle against this virus to be potentially penalised for getting infected in the line of duty. This includes non-patient facing staff, that still serve the NHS and should not be affected. 

We call upon the NHS authorities and the government to reflect on this matter and establish the 'Special COVID Sickness Leave' for all NHS staff. This will not only shield us from unfair reprimands but will also reinforce our fight against the pandemic by securing the workforce's morale and wellbeing. Please sign and support our cause.