Dudley North MP Marco Longhi has successfully fought for hospital workers rights after some were excluded from the NHS Covid Lump Sum payment.

During the pandemic, many healthcare workers worked tirelessly and selflessly during an incredibly tough and uncertain time.

NHS staff were awarded a covid lump sum payment as a result, however staff employed through Mitie, who handled similar responsibilities, were not in receipt of this. As a result, staff employed by Mitie are seeking a covid lump sum payment.

Last week, Marco Longhi raised this inequality in Parliament and asked Penny Mordaunt MP, Leader of the House of Commons, and highlighted that despite both NHS contracted workers and Mitie contracted workers doing the same jobs, Mitie staff had not been awarded the same.

Andrew Stephenson MP, Minister of State for Health, has now responded to Marco and highlighted the need to show all healthcare workers the gratitude they are owed. The Minister has confirmed that a lump sum covid payment will now be paid to these healthcare workers and thanked Marco for bringing this to his attention. Marco said:

"This is fantastic news for Mitie workers, both those in my constituency and nationally. This recent announcement made by the Government, upon my pressure, will ensure that Mitie health workers, receive a COVID bonus in line with NHS contracted staff.

"I am grateful to the Health Minister, who listened to my case. I have always stated that Mitie should have put their hands in their pocket and not the taxpayers.

"However, for me, my constituents come first. So as a result, I have asked the Government to step in and award those affected. They deserve the same gratitude and rewards as NHS contracted staff.

"Finally, those who worked in Russells Hall and other clinical settings will be equally compensated."