Health concerns as St Leger Homes continue non-essential maintenance inside Doncaster tenants' council houses through lockdown

Staff who have been asked to carry out the work, and their families, have raised concerns over the decision, saying they fear it could put their health at risk.

One said they could have to go into 10 households a day, and it would put their health and safety in the hands of the tenants.

He said: “This is causing concern to the staff with the new (coronavirus) variant being said to be 50 per cent to 70 per cent more contagious.

"With St Leger being part of the government / council frame shouldn’t they be setting an example by not breaking bubbles for non-essential repairs? Surely there is enough external work for them to be carrying out to minimise the risk of spreading the virus and protecting the NHS. The front line staff seem to be expendable while all office staff are working from home making all the decisions."

One employee’s wife added: “They are putting the lives of themselves, their families and also the tenants at risk of spreading the virus.”

St Leger Homes said in a statement Government guidance allows staff to carry out maintenance work and it took the safety of tenants and staff very seriously, following recommendations from Government and Public Health England.

Staff will wear a face covering or visor throughout any visit to reduce risk to customers, cleaning hands and surfaces during and after work.

Tenants are asked to stick with social distancing guidelines, maintaining a 2m distance at all times – and where possible move to another room or wear a face covering.

It added: “We are asking that any tenants that have tested positive for Covid and are currently isolating; or are isolating because they think they have symptoms and are waiting to take a test; or waiting for a test result to let us know in advance by calling 01302 862 862. In these instances, all non-essential repairs will be postponed until the self-isolation period is complete.”

If a vulnerable tenant has been advised to shield and wants to postpone work already arranged, call 01302 862 862 to re-arrange.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.