Mandatory vaccine rules could cut paramedic numbers by 'around 500', a union boss has warned - but ambulance service bosses say the true figure will be 'significantly lower'.
MPs are expected to vote on the new changes, which would see all frontline healthcare workers required to have their jabs by spring 2022, today.
Government ministers say the measures are being brought in because ‘patient safety is paramount’, but frontline staff on the ground are warning of large-scale job losses.
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Jeff Gorman, NWAS’ Unison branch secretary has said he expects 'around 500' members of staff to lose their job.
However, bosses at North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) believe the true figure is much lower than 500 - and will come down further still as more staff choose to get the jab with the change in the law.
Mr Gorman explained: “Within NWAS [we estimate there are] 500 that are not currently vaccinated,” he told the Manchester Evening News.
“What we are doing is trying to redeploy staff in non-patient facing roles, but that depends on vacancies, experience, etc.
“They will be invited into a meeting about why they are not having it to see if they can be coaxed.
"There will be some who say no. They will lose their jobs.”
While over 80 percent of the workforce is double-jabbed, he said, the vaccination issue has become ‘divisive’.
He continued: “I am getting calls from people who have not been vaccinated who are worried. I am getting calls from others with concerns about working with them.
“It’s very divisive. We don’t support mandatory vaccination but we support staff getting the vaccine.
“It’s a horrible position to be in because there’s nothing I can say to alleviate their concerns.”
The MEN understands NWAS chiefs believe the estimate of 500 is also not accurate - who say the true number is 'significantly lower'.
Lisa Ward, NWAS' Director of People, said: “The Trust is currently in the preparation and planning stages with regards to the potential impact of mandating Covid vaccination for front line workers.
"We are awaiting the parliamentary process to conclude but are making sensitive inquiries regarding the vaccination status of our workforce and their intentions.
"Whilst there are a number of staff who are currently unvaccinated, many are indicating their intention to seek vaccination in light of the changing requirements. We will continue to work to support staff through this process should legislation be passed requiring staff to be vaccinated.”
The concerns come as the ambulance services faces unprecedented pressures - fielding high volumes of 999 calls from patients needing emergency treatment.
Paramedics say they are already struggling to meet the demand, as they also face difficulties handing patients over to hospitals which have been '93 pc full' in recent weeks.
Despite the protests of medics around the country, the Health Secretary said the plans to mandate vaccines were designed to protect patient safety.
Sajid Javid said: “Vaccines save lives and patient safety is paramount. Many of the people being treated in hospitals or cared for at home are the most vulnerable to COVID-19. We have a responsibility to give patients and staff the best possible protection.
“We have consulted closely with the sector and will introduce new regulations to ensure people working in healthcare are vaccinated from next spring.
“I want to thank everyone who works in health and social care for the amazing work they do. If you haven’t come forward for your jab yet, please do so. We are determined to support you in this process.”
