1.8 million key workers at higher risk of Covid-19

NEARLY one in seven key workers across the UK is at increased risk from Covid-19 because of existing health conditions.

People with certain health conditions are considered to be at "moderate risk" from the coronavirus, and the UK government has advised them to leave the house for very limited purposes.

In 2019, there were 10.6 million people in key work occupations - a third of all workers - Office for National Statistics figures show.

Key work includes jobs that are critical to the Covid-19 response and cannot be suspended, such as those in the health and social care sector, in schools, and in supermarkets.

Of the total number of key workers, 15% were deemed to be at moderate risk from the coronavirus because of underlying health conditions.

That's the equivalent of around 1.8 million key workers.

An underlying health condition is a chronic or long-term illness that weakens the immune system.

The most common health conditions were heart problems, affecting around 539,000 key workers, followed by chest and breathing problems (also around 539,000), stomach, liver, kidney or digestive problems (353,000), and diabetes (273,000).

Government guidance also defines those aged 70 years or older as at moderate risk from Covid-19. Of all key workers, 1% (130,000) were aged 70 years and over.

According to trade unions, the government is failing to protect key workers.

Commenting on the figures, UNISON assistant general secretary Christina McAnea said: "The work of staff such as care workers, teaching assistants and cleaners can put them at risk, while most of us are safe at home.

"Many work in close proximity to vulnerable people such those with dementia or learning disabilities. This makes social distancing impossible and puts them at increased danger of becoming infected.

"The government has failed to keep key workers safe. Many feel scared and anxious because of ongoing issues around personal protective equipment.”

The trade union is asking the government to guarantee plentiful supplies of safety kit, a fast and effective test, track and trace system and ensure those who need to be off work get full pay.

The general secretary of the TUC, Frances O'Grady, said: “Frontline workers are putting their own health on the line to look after the rest of us. They're caring for the sick and vulnerable, getting us to work, keeping our shelves stocked and our vital services running.

"Too many have been forced to risk their lives during this crisis because of failures in planning and preparedness. It must never be allowed to happen again. Our NHS, social care and key workers deserve better."

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “The whole country recognises the bravery of nurses, doctors, social care staff and everyone working on the frontline during this unprecedented global pandemic.

“We have been working around the clock to ensure PPE is delivered as quickly as possible to those on the frontline to keep them safe, delivering over 1.3 billion items of PPE since this outbreak began.

“We have also achieved the largest and most rapid expansion of British diagnostic capability in modern times, ensuring that all workers who need a test can now access one.”