Under new government legislation to protect those who are vulnerable, Kisharon, and other providers, cannot legally employ unvaccinated staff after 1 April.

“We don’t want to lose any of our staff over this, and jeopardise the close relationships built over time with people they support,” said Lee Zucker, Kisharon Human Resources Manager.

Many staff are fully vaccinated, while others who are not are talking to managers about their concerns to clarify the situation and are encouraged to speak to their GP or other healthcare professional.

“At the end of the day, our aim is to protect all those who use care services, staff and the wider community,” Lee said.

The new law applies only to those working in a health and social care regulated activity. It’s not clear yet whether staff working in adult opportunities are exempt.

Kisharon’s priority is to make sure everyone is aware of the legislation and to check the vaccination status, or medical exemptions, of staff.

Those fully protected need to upload an NHS Covid pass to a specially designated online address to confirm their status.

Unvaccinated staff need to act swiftly. First and second vaccines must be eight weeks apart, so 3 February is the latest date for the first vaccine, with the second on 31st March. But potentially hampering the process is the rule that vaccines cannot be given unless 28 days has elapsed after a positive Covid test.

Lee added: “We urge action as soon as possible.”