Written question WQ82414

We announced a bonus payment for NHS and social care staff on 17 March to recognise their extraordinary contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic. I appreciate the challenges and immense pressure facing all of our dedicated health and social care workforce in Wales, at all times, but particularly during this unprecedented time; this payment demonstrates our immense gratitude in Wales for the incredible efforts of these individuals.

It is estimated the payment will benefit 265,429 people in Wales including 110,000 social care staff, 124,952 NHS Wales staff, 2,345 deployed students and 28,132 primary care staff (including pharmacy, GP, dental and optometry staff).

Those paid directly through NHS Payroll can expect to receive the payment, or their first instalment if they have requested to receive the payment in instalments, in their May pay packets. My officials are currently working with finance colleagues and NHS organisations to issue guidance regarding commissioned service providers in order to make the payment to those eligible in the summer.

All primary care providers and their eligible staff (including eligible staff working in GP practices) will receive the bonus payment. This includes admin staff, cleaners, etc as long as they have worked for 4 consecutive weeks during the eligibility period which is beginning with 17 March 2020 and ending with 28 February 2021

Primary care providers will complete an electronic application form which will include details for all eligible individuals. A Welsh Health Circular which will include a link to the application form will be issued in the coming weeks. If primary care providers submit their electronic application form by the end of June 2021, they will receive their payment by 14 September 2021. Primary care providers will then arrange to pay to the person on behalf of whom they have made an application all sums received in respect of that person’s application.