Call to help workers with jab

Companies are being advised to give workers time off to attend Covid vaccination appointments.

The conciliation services Acas said firms should also allow staff time off sick for a few days if they have side-effects from the jab.

Acas chief executive Susan Clews said: "The UK has a world-leading vaccination programme and recent projections suggest that everyone in the country may get offered the vaccine by the end of July.

"Some employers have already indicated a wish for their employees to get vaccinated, but this is a tricky area of employment law as vaccines have always been voluntary.

"Our new advice aims to help employers support staff to get the vaccine, maintain good workplace relations and avoid unnecessary conflict."