Hermes, the parcel delivery company, has announced it is to make a £1 million fund available for its self-employed couriers, to help support them if they need to self-isolate as a result of the coronavirus.

It follows concerns about their welfare as self-employed people are not eligible for sick pay.

Hermes, which was recently at the centre of controversy after pictures emerged of parcels strewn across its Bradford depot in Low Moor, will also support them in finding someone to deliver on their behalf if they do not have a substitute.

The company will also guarantee that their rounds will be kept open for them for when they return. This initiative is supported by the GMB Union.

Martijn De Lange, CEO at Hermes UK, said: “This is an extraordinary situation and we have taken the decision to help support our couriers financially if they need help and also ensure we are doing everything we can to prevent the spread of the virus. It is simply the right thing to do and I hope that other organisations will follow our lead.”