I work in a primary school as a 1 on 1 TA and just before the lockdown I contacted a Dr who told me I should be working from home for 12 weeks which is due to end soon. I contacted my nurse who then contacted my specialist to find out what I should do regarding returning to work and I was told that I could go back! Was very surprised as he said I could work back in a classroom too. But my boss has said I probably won't be in a classroom and will be given a temporary job doing paperwork etc. Found it strange how the Dr initially said yes I need to work from home and my nurse said that too but now I can go back once my note expires which is in a few weeks. I only have Type 1. I'm incredibly nervous though as I've been fully social distancing this whole time, not even been food shopping as my Husband has been doing it. I've only been going out for exercise as advised.
Was this since the new research was released this week? From what I've read lots of GPs are providing shielding letters since the new research has been released, but only if you ask and seemingly depending on profession and so relative risk. I guess the argument being a small office worker is encountering fewer people so less chance of transmission?
My consultant immediately asked what job I have, and when I said I was a teacher he said I should try and talk to my line manager and negotiate working from home and contact him if they didn't accept. This was before the research was released this week, though only a few days before and he said he was suspecting the risk to be higher for type 1, advising me to shield regardless of control etc.
The main point being that if there are any pupils unable to attend school then they will still need work providing, help with work, welfare check ins etc so there are duties you can complete from home.
Your school sound reasonable in offering office based work. I'd still ask for a risk assessment (think about out of the ordinary, fire drill etc) and where possible see if you can complete any of these tasks remotely if you're concerned by the health and safety of your workplace. It doesn't need to be awkward, but if you're concerned about any of their provisions then it might be worth saying.
The way I see it I take forever just to get over a simple cold, and my bloods shoot up even when I get just a simple cold. I like my job and would much rather be well and doing it from home than go in and possibly get ill and be signed off for ages. I know it's only 'possibly', but with cases still high it is quite a high possible.
My understanding is that shielding lasts as long as the government decide? The current advice seems to be end of June, which is the date I assume most letters will also state? But the gov website says it could be extended?
Sorry lots of questions and it is late so a bit rambly, sorry!