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<p>The current epidemiological data shows the risk is currently low enough to allow
the relaxation in guidance that we have outlined. From 1 August. the Government will
further relax advice to those shielding, bringing it in line with the advice to those
who are clinically vulnerable. In broad terms, this means that although the advice
is still to stay at home as much as possible, those shielding may wish to go out to
more places and see more people, as long as they take particular care to minimise
contact with others outside their household and follow hygiene measures. This means
that if they are unable to work from home but can work on site, they should do so,
provided the business is COVID-safe. Therefore, clinically extremely vulnerable individuals
will no longer be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay on the basis of being clinically
extremely vulnerable.</p><p> </p><p>The government expects employers to do the right
thing to help their employees to transition back to work safely and support them to
follow strict social distancing in the workplace where they cannot work from home.</p><p>
</p><p>If employers cannot provide a safe working environment, they will still be
able to access a range of government support: this includes the Coronavirus Job Retention
Scheme for employees who have previously been furloughed for a full three-week period
prior to 30 June and the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme.</p><p> </p><p>Guidance
around shielding will be continually reviewed and informed by the latest scientific
evidence and advice. We will continue to assess the support in place should advice
to shield be reinstated.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>
</strong></p><p><strong>Background</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><ul><li>Employees
will remain eligible for SSP if they are unable to work and are required to self-isolate
because they, or someone in their household, has symptoms of COVID-19, or because
they have been notified by the NHS or public health authorities that they have come
into contact with someone who has coronavirus.</li><li>SSP also remains available
to those who are off sick for reasons other than coronavirus.</li><li>SSP eligibility
conditions apply.</li></ul>
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