Stay safe, look after yourself
As I write to you, it’s now eight weeks since the nation entered ‘lockdown’.
I know what a challenging time this is for all of you who are staying at home to protect yourselves, your loved ones and other colleagues, as you adapt to huge changes to your normal way of life. I do hope you’re keeping as well as you can.
GMB ASDA union update for colleagues - You may have seen that the government had committed to increasing the number of tests for COVID-19 to 100,000 people in the UK per day. More testing will mean the country will have a better understanding of the true number of cases, making sure people who are ill are really clear about the steps they need to take to look after themselves and giving peace of mind to those who don’t actually have the infection.
This payment will be calculated on actual hours worked, based on the average of actual weekly worked hours, between Sunday 15th March 2020 and Saturday 16th May 2020 (or contracted hours whichever is the higher)
GMB ASDA union national retail and distribution reps have been pushing for the thank you payment time be paid at actual hours, so this is good news for all their endeavours.
Since the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak and the fast changing nature of things, I've wanted to communicate with you on a daily basis to make sure you're getting everything you need – when you need it. After Easter, if things continue to settle I'm going to step-back these notes, to three times a week, so you can focus on supporting your colleagues and serving your customers.
Our reps have been pushing for the first three days of sick to be paid during the second period of isolation, so this is an achievement and the same as distribution.
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Thanks again for all your support during what's been another really busy week. I know a lot of information has come your way so thanks to you and your teams for reacting so quickly. |
Vulnerable colleagues who want to work reduced hours
We know that many colleagues who fall into the vulnerable category would like to continue working, but on reduced hours. We’re happy for them to explore this option, but it must be approved by their GSM/SM and their SMP, who will make sure the new working arrangement is recorded accurately.
self-isolating? anyone shopping on your behalf can use your colleague discount card
After what has been another fast moving week as we continue to react to the challenges of the coronavirus outbreak, I wanted to thank you all once again for you and your teams’ incredible support and hard work. At the moment, we are reacting to new situations every day, but you have risen to this challenge brilliantly. Reflecting on the week and going into the weekend, there are a few things I wanted to share with you.
We are in our second week of national calls to discuss business updates and member’s feedback and questions in relation to the Coronavirus. These sessions are invaluable for both the GMB Union and Asda. We will have two calls each week for the foreseeable future so that we can maintain key lines of communication. Items we have discussed include:
ASDA has agreed to pay 12 weeks pay to all those in the vulnerable category and those caring for extremely vulnerable people from today. This is good news and GMB pressure has paid off. Thanks for all your hard work.
ASDA message from Anthony. As you know, over the weekend the Government changed its guidelines around vulnerable workers.
Dear colleagues (Roger Burnley), I want to start by saying thank you for the fantastic service you gave our vulnerable customers yesterday. Generally, the feedback from customers has been great and I’m sure you will all have heard stories to make you feel proud.
Address:
GMB trade union
North West & lrish Region
Regional Office
Columbus Quay
Riverside Drive
Liverpool
L3 4GB
Phone: 0151 727-0077
Email:info@gmbnorthwest.co.uk
