Editor

Public services union Unison Cymru Wales has launched a campaign to encourage the UK government to extend its deadline for applications to the Settled Status Scheme.

Covid-19 has prevented many EU nationals from applying for Settled Status, which would allow EU nationals already living in Wales, to continue to work here.

Unison has repeatedly underlined the contribution of foreign nationals working in Welsh public services. The trade union is asking its 100,000 members in Wales to write to their MP using its new campaign website and request the deadline be extended past June 2021.

During Covid-19, a number of the measures put in place to support workers with the application process were withdrawn, some, including access to scanners and computers in public libraries, continue to be inaccessible to EU workers.

Many of those who have yet to apply will have limited or no access to the wholly online application system or will experience significant financial hardship doing so. These workers have been at the heart of the response to Covid-19 and deserve to have their rights protected.

Bethan Thomas Unison Cymru/Wales regional manager

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