GMB has hit out at Priory group after a children’s worker was sacked whilst sick with Covid-19
The man, who works for Priory Coxlease and Clay Hill Schools and Associated Children’s Homes, in Hampshire, was dismissed after catching the deadly virus.
He was diagnosed with Covid-19 on the day of his disciplinary hearing.
GMB asked for a delay to observe Government social distancing guidelines, but Priory were unwilling to delay the hearing. They sacked him as he lay in his sick bed.
Priory Group dismissed him amid accusations of gross misconduct - but he has never had the chance to defend himself and was never sanctioned – being expected to care for vulnerable young people right up until becoming ill.
Nicola Nixon, GMB Organiser, said:
“The fact Priory refused to postpone the disciplinary meeting and sacked our member in his absence whilst he was sick with Covid 19 is a complete farce.
“He wasn’t even suspended. You’ve got to ask if the employer believes he was guilty of gross misconduct, why did they allow him to continue work with vulnerable young people? It just doesn’t stack up.
“This callous and heartless action means a hardworking key worker, who has provided important support for vulnerable young people during this crisis, finds themselves unemployed whilst suffering from Covid-19
“We call on Priory Group to reinstate him and schedule a fair and proper disciplinary hearing when he is recovered."
