UNISON Northern Ireland

UNISON ASKS PUBLIC TO CLAP FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Tonight at 8pm the public is being asked to show its support for UNISON members and all those working in frontline public services responding to the Covid-19 pandemic. The public should join in a mass round of applause at 8pm while staying in their homes.

UNISON members working at the Mater Hospital Belfast will hold a short event to recognise and acknowledge the public support they have received over the last several weeks, making sure at all times to abide by the public health measures in place around social distancing. Their message to the public is to thank them for their support and remind them to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.

Commenting on the support shown by the public, UNISON Mater Joint Branch Secretary and health service worker Aine Brennan said:

“We want to thank the public for their support. We are staying here working for you – all we ask is that you follow government guidelines and stay at home for us”.

“We also want to thank all key frontline workers in health and social care, and in the community and beyond who are continuing to provide essential services in the face of this pandemic. In particular, we want to show our support to those workers in Care Homes who are now dealing with the surge of Covid-19. Many of our colleagues working in Care Homes have contracted Covid-19 and are being forced into poverty as many employers are paying them Statutory Sick Pay rather than cover their full pay. Please stay at home whilst we work”.