A union is calling for all public service workers in Wales to receive the same £500 Covid bonus to that for NHS and care staff.

“Many low paid, mainly female public service workers in Wales, including school support staff, have been left hundreds of pounds worse off because of the costs of working from home,” UNISON claims.

Nine out of ten have not been reimbursed for extra costs.

“UNISON wants Welsh government to ensure no public service worker suffers detriment with the new ways of working,” it declares.

“Public service workers told to work from home, have met the costs of additional heating and electricity, telephone and broadband, home adaptation, and increased home insurance.”

Lianne Dallimore, the union’s Welsh leader, says : “The pandemic and lockdown haven’t affected everyone equally. Many of those who are low paid and working from home have been left struggling to survive.

“These people include public service workers who kept vital community services running throughout lockdown and ensured virtual learning could continue for school children. You can’t question their dedication, yet UNISON has received reports from across Wales these same workers are hundreds of pounds worse off because of home working.

“The Covid bonus of £500 should be extended to all council workers who played their part serving their community.”