Colleagues warned to prepare for more snow and icy weather this weekend

January 8, 2021

All colleagues should prepare for snow tonight and this weekend. Please have plans in place for late arrivals of staff due to the impact of expected snow and ice. We are advised that public transport should still be running, although disruption may occur. Colleagues can also refer to their business continuity plans and check that they are prepared to continue services in the event of bad weather conditions. Our Trust’s severe weather plan sets out appropriate preventative action and can be accessed here: Severe weather plan 2020.

All areas should have business continuity plans agreed with their staff for cold weather, ice and snow. These should include:

• Working with staff regarding their ability to report for work if transport systems are affected or schools closed
• Agreeing working arrangements for severe weather in advance, including potentially the need for staff to stay overnight

Staff are expected to make every reasonable effort to attend work (including using public transport when they wouldn’t normally) providing it is safe to do so.

• If not able to reach their normal base, to attend an alternative base if that is easier to reach.
• To work from home (if applicable and agreed with their manager)
• Staff unable to attend work or work from home, to notify their managers ASAP and required to either take the day as annual leave or time in lieu (to be agreed locally).
• Staff who are able to walk in but are not rostered to work may be asked to support their work area.  This is not mandatory and will be based on mutual agreement and rescheduling of work duties

Please ensure that all staff contact details are up to date and that you have a plan in place so that you are aware of any issues at departmental level