Ikea has cut sick pay for staff unvaccinated against coronavirus who need to self-isolate, the furniture firm has announced.
The company admitted vaccination status is an “emotive topic” but said its policy will need to be updated with changing circumstances.
As infection rates rise, companies are seeing increased staff shortages as a result of the Omicron variant.
Ikea issues statement over Covid policy change
Unvaccinated Ikea employees could now be paid just £96.35 a week – the minimum for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).
The Mail on Sunday reports the average wages at Ikea are between £400 and £450 depending on location and staff are entitled to enhanced sick pay.
The retailer, which employs around 10,000 people in the UK, issued a statement explaining its decision.
It read: "Fully vaccinated co-workers or those with mitigating circumstances will receive full pay for self-isolations.
"Unvaccinated co-workers will be paid in line with our company absence policy for self-isolation, with close-contact isolation being paid at Statutory Sick Pay.
"We appreciate that this is an emotive topic and all circumstances will be considered on a case by case basis, therefore anyone in doubt or concerned about their situation is encouraged to speak to their manager."
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