New COVID-19 variant: updated guidance does not go far enough, says UNISON

In the light of the new COVID-19 variant, the Department for Education has issued updated guidance on face coverings in schools. In primary schools, face coverings should be worn by staff and adults (including visitors) when moving around in corridors and communal areas. In secondary schools, face coverings should be worn by pupils, staff and adult visitors when moving around the premises outside of classrooms, such as in corridors and communal areas. Pupils should also continue to wear face coverings on public and school transport. UNISON does not think this guidance goes far enough and is calling for schools to strongly encourage pupils and staff to wear face coverings in secondary school classrooms too – in line with rules in Scotland. Schools have the freedom to do this locally. The union is also calling on the Westminster government to urgently introduce additional mitigations to protect pupils and staff in all schools – more details to follow shortly. UNISON assistant general secretary Jon Richards said: “Face coverings can’t be limited to communal areas. If they’re to have the right effect they need to be in all areas of secondary schools, including classrooms, as is the case in Scotland. “Proper ventilation is also vital to tackling infection spread. Air filtration devices should be rolled out wherever they’re needed. Reviving school bubbles will also help to ensure pupils don’t miss out any further on their education.” The article New COVID-19 varia...
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article Covid-19 education schools Source Type: news