Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, has backed a cross-party campaign by leading MPs calling on the Government to introduce a Coronavirus Compensation Scheme for those on the frontline of the battle with Coronavirus.
Public support for the campaign – led by Layla Moran MP – continues to grow, with over 8,000 members of the public having signed the petition.
The MPs’ letter to the Prime Minister on 30 March said ‘those on the frontline of this battle against coronavirus are heroes’ and advocates for the scheme to mirror that already in place for the Armed Forces. The scheme would include:
- a lump sum up front
- a guaranteed income for their family
- child payments to eligible children under 18
- contributions towards funeral costs
The call follows reports that hundreds of doctors are less likely to return to the frontline or increase their hours because they fear their families will not be properly compensated if they lose their lives, and news that over 100 NHS staff have now died after contracting COVID-19.
The Coronavirus Compensation Scheme should be open to the families of those classified as key workers, notably NHS and social care staff as well as teachers.
Andrew Gwynne said:
“Those on the frontline in this crisis are putting their lives on the line every day to help protect the rest of us. They should know that the state will help their families if the worst happens.
“The Coronavirus Compensation Scheme would provide security and comfort for those risking their lives in the face of COVID-19. It is the very least they deserve.
“I’m proud to give my support to this campaign and would urge the Government to introduce this scheme without delay.”