Hermes pledges £1m to help couriers in coronavirus self-isolation

The GMB union has praised Hermes for pledging £1m to support self-employed workers if they need to self-isolate as a result of the coronavirus.

Hermes confirmed it will help find someone to deliver on a courier's behalf and guarantee that their rounds will be kept open for them for when they return.

GMB said the "ground-breaking" announcement was the latest win in its battle to protect workers and the British public from COVID-19.

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Earlier this week, NHS contractor ISS announced all staff would receive full pay in cases of coronavirus self-isolation, with fellow contractor Sodexo fowling suit shortly after.

Mick Rix, GMB national officer, said: “Hermes have once again taken the industry lead and shown the gig economy how things should be done.

“By setting up this fund to assist those couriers they are not just protecting people who deliver for them, they are helping to keep the British public safe.

“This is a very welcome step in the right direction, and all employers across the UK shoud follow their example.”