MEMBERS of the public are being asked to show respect for council officers and contractors who are carrying out essential work across the city.

The appeal from Leeds City Council comes after reports of workers being verbally abused as they carried out vital tasks.

Essential work being undertaken by the council includes

caring for older people in their homes, emergency house repairs, essential road repairs, meals on wheels, and bin collections.

The council says it is continually reviewing its workplace policies and its workers are taking all necessary precautions in line with current Government advice, including around social distancing.

The council says some employees will be carrying out work which can’t be done from home. In these instances, assessments have been conducted to make sure these activities can be done safely in line with the social distancing guidance.

Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Judith Blake, said:

“We are doing everything we can to keep the public and our staff safe and well during these unprecedented times. I want to extend a huge thank you to all those currently performing essential work in communities across the city to ensure our vital services can keep running.

“At this time, we want to urge the public to support and respect these workers as their tireless work is key to keeping our city running.”