Coronavirus advice

Updated on Sunday 10 April

We will continually review this page, but check the government and NHS websites for the latest advice.

If you are a line manager, check out the resources over on the Coronavirus Updates page.

Key Messages

Latest NHS Advice

There is now different advice by nation, so you should access your nation's NHS site to understand the guidance that is applicable to you. Use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.

Find more information about the symptoms, self-isolation, and what to do on the NHS website.

If you are in the Isle of Man, visit The Isle of Man government website.

Vaccinations

Ideally you should arrange any appointment outside of work time. However, if this is not possible you must follow the Co-op dental and medical appointment policy.

Face Coverings

Some colleagues must wear face coverings when at work. The rules are different depending on which business area and country you work in.

Speak to your line manager to find out the rules for your business area and country.

Absence related to coronavirus

You should self-isolate/stay at home if you have coronavirus symptoms or have tested positive for coronavirus.

You may also need to self-isolate if a member of your household or a close contact has coronavirus symptoms or has tested positive for coronavirus.

However, this will be different depending on what country you live in and if you have had both vaccinations. Speak to your line manager if you are unsure if you need to self-isolate.

Line managers should view the resources on the intranet and can contact ER services for more information if required.

If you are self-isolating/Staying at home

You’ll need to follow your normal absence reporting procedure and contact your line manager to advise them of the need to isolate. Find more information about what to do when you are self-isolating on the NHS website.

You will need to get an online self-isolation note from the NHS. Give this to your line manager.

How your absence will be treated

If you are self-isolating for any of the reasons above, you will get paid in line with our normal sickness pay arrangements. Company sick pay or statutory sick pay will apply based on your entitlement.

If you are still unwell after self-isolating

You will need to obtain a fit note if you are absent from work where your self-isolation lasts over 7 days and you are still not fit enough to return.

Get tested for coronavirus

Testing across the UK/IOM is now different, so you should check your local government website to find out if you can test. The Co-op will not be providing any test kits for colleagues. If you wish to purchase a kit for yourself, this will be at your own expense.

When you get the test result

Let your manager know if it's positive. Your manager will notify ER services if you test positive and discuss how they can support you.

People with an increased risk

Coronavirus can make anyone seriously ill. But some people are at a higher risk and need to take extra steps to avoid becoming unwell.

Find out more about the people most at risk on the NHS website.

You should work from home if you can. If you are unable to work from home, you can go into your normal workplace as there are safety measures in place.

Schools and childcare

Find the latest information about schools and childcare on the government website.

If you are absent from work due to childcare issues, you should follow Co-op's emergency leave policy while you make alternative arrangements for childcare.

Speak to your line manager to discuss your situation.