Frontline workers planning to quit over safety concerns
A new poll of UK frontline workers responding to the Covid-19 crisis reveals how deeply concerned they are about their safety.
According to official research commissioned by Blink, the smart employee app, almost one quarter (24 per cent) are planning on resigning from their job once the crisis subsides.
The polling covered 1,099 frontline workers across the whole UK, in roles such as travel, transport, healthcare and the NHS, manufacturing, utilities, retail and more. Conducted by independent polling company Censuswide, the data also revealed that one in three (34 per cent) say their bosses have not done enough to address their concerns on the frontline.
When asked if their employer had communicated how to protect themselves during the outbreak – for example, through Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provisions or welfare updates – 40 per cent said they had not, citing the overall communication as ‘poor’.
Sadly, 28 per cent of frontline workers feel their voice isn’t heard when it comes to demanding adequate workplace safety. Additionally, one third (32 per cent) of workers feel they do not have easy access to Covid-19 policy data and 45 per cent say more should be invested in tools to reduce contact.
The polling also reveals that, over the past three months, 32 per cent felt they weren’t provided with the mental health support required to navigate the detrimental impact of Covid-19. This has clearly affected the assurance of workers on the frontline, with 37 per cent of respondents believing their employer values them less than their desk-based colleagues.
Sean Nolan, CEO and Founder of Blink commented: “Frontline workers have already exposed themselves and their loved ones to enormous risk during this pandemic. It’s worrying that such a large proportion of our NHS staff, bus drivers and other key workers still don’t feel safe.
“If the past three months have proven anything, it’s the critical role key workers play in society. Now is the time to invest in our frontline: to protect them, show our gratitude, and better equip them to serve the public. New technology can usher in a new era for the frontline.
“When the frontline has everything they need to stay safe at their fingertips – from regular welfare updates and temperature checking tools, to a voice in daily operations – they can finally work with peace of mind.”
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