Whilst insisting on colleagues’ vaccination may not be possible (as set out in yesterday’s update) you can, of course, encourage them to consider the vaccination.
With 41% of adults predicted to refuse the coronavirus vaccine, we consider the proactive steps you can take short of requiring colleagues to be vaccinated.
Lead by example – ask your leadership team to get vaccinated first and to share their experience with your colleagues.
Be clear on your purpose – sharing with your employees why getting the vaccine matters to your business is important. For example, if you’re in a sector that works with those classed as clinically extremely vulnerable, explain the risks that failing to get vaccinated might have.
Care personally – if colleagues are telling you that they’re not willing to be vaccinated, ask managers to take the time to speak with them and find out why. By investing the time to care personally, you may be able to understand their concerns and reassure them.
Control the message – create your own fact-based communications to share internally and promote the benefits of the vaccine both on a personal and business level.
Our ‘safe return to work’ guidance note covers the associated legal risks of compulsory vaccinations in more detail, along with our suggestions on how to manage a range of associated employment challenges faced during the pandemic. Click here for more information.
This update is accurate on the date it was sent (19 January 2021), but may be subject to change which may or may not be notified to you. This update is not to be taken as advice and you should seek advice if anything contained within affects you or your business.