I appreciate that this has been a very challenging time, particularly for those with diabetes.
I understand that 3.9 million people with diabetes are classed as ‘clinically vulnerable’. Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from harm and should consider the risk of Coronavirus to employees who are particularly vulnerable to the disease. Employers must stringently apply existing workplace controls such as social distancing, good hygiene, cleaning and ventilation.
Employers also have a duty to discuss risk management measures and explain controls to workers so that there is a mutual understanding on how best to minimise transmission.
The Government has asked that people should work from home again if possible. However, if this is not possible, employers should regularly review their Coronavirus risk assessment and take the steps necessary to protect their workers. As you will know, those with diabetes are at increased risk of complications if they catch the virus. It is therefore crucial that this is considered as part of the risk assessment. A template risk assessment request is available here: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/resources-s3/public/2020-08/Template%20letter%20to%20request%20risk%20assessment_0.docx
I have raised concerns with my Ministerial colleagues about keeping safe in the workplace and will closely follow this issue in Parliament.