Army of three million volunteers ready to fight coronavirus outbreak
AN ARMY of 3million volunteers is being lined up in a “massive national effort” to fight the coronavirus outbreak.
They will be allowed to take up to four weeks off work to join over-stretched NHS staff battling to contain the killer bug.
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Ministers will rush through new employment laws to protect jobs for helpers who assist doctors and nurses on the front line.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock last night admitted the virus was spreading so quickly that all hands on deck were required.
He said NHS staff were already working round the clock to fight the outbreak — but their resources were not enough.
Calls to NHS 111 have increased by more than a third and the service is at full stretch, despite an extra 500 staff.
Mr Hancock is preparing to “call up” 3million people who volunteer in health and social care.
Experienced or qualified volunteers will be job-protected for up to four weeks.
Mr Hancock said: “We plan for the worst and work for the best.”
Further measures being considered include allowing some court hearings to be conducted by phone or video to ensure justice can still be delivered.
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