High street retailer Wilko has issued a statement of apology, after reports emerged online yesterday that staff should continue to work regardless of their stance on Covid-19 infection.
High Street in turn said the retailer got “bad” and blamed “poor communication” for the widespread upheaval caused.
A leaked memo appeared on social media yesterday (March 14) saying store and warehouse staff should continue with their normal duties if they have no symptoms – reports Wales Online.
Go here for the latest coronavirus updates and the latest Covid-19 news
Following the information leak, Wilko CEO Jerome Saint-Marc issued a statement.
In the official announcement, he said: “When something is wrong, we raise our hands, admit it and work to make it right.
“Today’s news highlighted miscommunication in our Covid-19 policies, and I wanted to reassure all of our customers and staff that…
“Our advice to team members who show symptoms of Covid / test positive is that although they are no longer required by law to self-isolate, they should still stay home and avoid contact with people. others.
“This will help reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19.”
He added: “We are operating an enhanced sick pay policy and supporting those team members who need it most, including those with Covid-19. We will continue to take care of our team members. to the best of our abilities.”
Wilko employs around 16,000 people and The Mirror yesterday reported that the leaked memo said: “If you test positive for Covid-19 and feel well, you can continue to come to work, if you feel too unwell to work, you must follow the absence policy.”
It comes after self-isolation rules were changed last month in England, despite criticism from public health experts.
The government has also confirmed that large-scale free testing is due to end on April 1.
In January, Wilko also confirmed plans to close 15 stores in a move unions say could impact hundreds of jobs.
For the latest local news straight to your inbox, head here to sign up for our free newsletter