A PATIENT transport firm with branches in Cornwall has agreed an enhancement of pay and conditions for its staff who are working extra hours in the frontline against the coronavirus.
A spokesperson for the company said: ’In light of the changing role that the Ambulance Care Assistants are undertaking, the leadership team entered into discussions with the clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) to request additional funding for these staff. This would enable E-zec to provide a temporary enhancement for employees, in recognition of the role they perform during this period.
’E-zec and the CCG have now come to an agreement, which enables the business to implement these changes with immediate effect. E-zec have also put in place enhanced overtime rates for all members of staff and a temporary company sick pay scheme for all employees who are taken ill, or are required to isolate due to Covid-19.
’Andy Wickenden says “I am very pleased to advise that NHS commissioners have agree a shift enhancement for all road-based staff, and staff who are involved in the cleaning of vehicles, alongside enhanced overtime and paid sick leave for all staff. Both my management team and I wish to express our gratitude to our employees for the great job that they are doing in supporting our patients and the NHS.’
A joint statement releases by E-zec and Unison states: ’This is a very challenging time for the majority of key workers who undertake roles which are public facing. This also applies to the excellent frontline staff who continue to work with, and transport, patients who have been tested positive for and/or are symptomatic of Covid-19.
’We at Unison continue to support these employees, and provide our services and guidance to both our members and the associated businesses that they work for.
’Leading the way for care and compassion towards their employees in these uncertain times is E-zec Medical Transport Services Ltd.’