If you have any questions which aren’t covered by this then just get in touch on 01698 250280 and speak to us directly. If you need a PA for emergency cover then contact us on the same number. We hope you find these example questions helpful:

• “One of my PAs is refusing to travel to work in case they catch Coronavirus, does that count as sick leave?”– No, a PA CANNOT refuse to work their regular hours because of the Coronavirus UNLESS they’ve become exposed/sick and need to self-isolate.

• “My PA can’t work because a family member has Coronavirus and they need to take care of them, does that count as sick leave?”– Yes, they are looking after someone with the virus, meaning they will be exposed and need to self-isolate. This means they are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) under government guidance.

• “Some of my PAs have been advised to self-isolate, are they entitled to sick pay?”– Yes, If they have been advised by the NHS to self-isolate FOR WHATEVER REASON then they are entitled to SSP while doing so.

• “Do the normal rules for SSP apply for Coronavirus?”– Currently yes, employees who are off sick do not get SSP for the first three days they are off sick. HOWEVER, it has been announced that SSP will apply from the first day of absence for cases of Coronavirus/self-isolation and we expect legislation reflecting this to be passed in future.

• “My PA needs time off so they can look after their child since the schools closed, what do I do in this situation?”– This falls under Dependents/Carers Leave which allows them to take UNPAID time off work to care for their dependent. They might ask if they can use their Annual Leave hours so they are still paid during this time but it is your choice to allow this.

• “Two of my PAs have holidays abroad planned and I’ve approved their Annual Leave, what can I do?”– If there are no travel restrictions to the places they are travelling then they are able to go as planned if they want. However, we advise you keep informed about any guidance or restrictions that might be implemented while they are away.

• “What measures can I make my staff take to prevent us catching Coronavirus?”– You can advise your PAs to wash their hands more often and practice good hygiene standards where possible. We also recommend you follow Government Guidance on appropriate PPE for your PAs .

• “I need to self-isolate due to exposure/infection of Coronavirus, What do I do about my PAs?”– In this situation, we advise you contact your local NHS services, explain the situation and follow their advice. If you are required to be hospitalised or otherwise don’t need your PAs for a time then we suggest you negotiate a period of furlough (Temporary Leave with 80% of their usual pay) with your employees. As they are not the ones who are ill in this situation, they are NOT entitled to SSP.

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