A supply teacher on zero hour contract expressed concerns over her job amidst the COVID-19 outbreak in a Kings Langley community group.
She also encouraged other people in the same situation to make their voice be heard.
Katharine Harper took to social media to discuss how uncertain her situation is right now as she feels the government is not providing clear guidelines on how she will be supported financially.
So far, the government has said that supply teachers with coronavirus or who are self-isolating can claim £94.25 a week of statutory sick pay, but will not get it when schools are closed.
Many supply teachers are complaining that it is not even a day’s pay.
Katharine said: “If you’re on an assignment and have an agreement with a school and you stop because you have to start self-isolating you might be able to apply. If you don’t have an assignment coming up because you do day to day as you’re on zero hours, you can’t apply.”
People who are on zero hour contracts and earn more than £118 per week will be on the PAYE system, but again clear instructions are not offered to unions and agencies.
She continued: “The unions don’t know what to do, the supply agencies don’t know. There’s no guidance for them, there’s been no guidance from the government at all.
“There is a great deal of uncertainty and worry, what the government says and what’s actually happening are a long way apart at the moment.
“Getting results will be because we have fought for it, which means some people who don’t have access to agencies, information or employers won’t get anything. It’s a struggle.”
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