Guidance from NHS Employers regarding childcare

As we move into the formal school summer holiday period and look forward to schools being back for all years in September we note that balancing the care of pre-school and school-age children with an active career has always been a challenge. These challenges will inevitably be exacerbated by the increased demands on NHS staff during the remainder of the Covid-19 emergency and as we plan for a reactivation of NHS services in the context of autumn and winter pressures whilst still addressing Covid and a possible increase in non-Covid respiratory disease including flu.

NHS Employers has just (15 July 2020) issued new guidance to employers on supporting their staff with childcare responsibilities in this new, challenging context. The guidance and FAQs can be found at: https://www.nhsemployers.org/news/2020/07/new-guidance-on-supporting-staff-with-childcare-responsibilities-launched

Mike Cornes & Geoff Lester

FCS Representatives to NHS TU Leads.

17 July 2020