Alan Brown MP calls for Coronavirus Compensation Scheme

Alan Brown MP backs campaign for compensation for families of front-line coronavirus victims

The MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun has called on the Prime Minister to support the loved ones of key workers.

Mr Brown, along with 50 other cross-party MPs and 5,000 members of the public have backed a campaign asking for a Coronavirus Compensation Scheme.

The scheme will be for the families of key frontline workers who lose their lives to the virus.

The MPs’ letter to the Prime Minister states ‘those on the frontline of this battle against coronavirus are heroes’ and advocates for the scheme to mirror that already in place for the Armed Forces. The scheme would include; a lump sum up front, a guaranteed income for their family, child payments to eligible children under the age of 18 and contributions towards funeral costs.

The call follows reports that hundreds of doctors are less likely to return to the frontline or increase their hours because they fear their families will not be properly compensated if they lose their lives.

The MPs are proposing the Coronavirus Compensation Scheme should be open to the families of those classified as key workers, notably NHS and social care staff as well as teachers.

Commenting, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said: 

“Those on the frontline, who are putting themselves in harm’s way every day to save others, are heroes. They should know that the state will help their families if the worst happens.

“A Coronavirus Compensation Scheme would provide security and comfort for those risking their lives in the face of COVID-19, although of course no money could ever compensate for any loss of life.

“I’m calling on the Government to introduce this compassionate compensation scheme without delay. These workers are risking their own lives for our health and wellbeing – they deserve the security and comfort this brings.”

Sign the petition HERE