DOZENS of insurance workers remain in an office despite the coronavirus pandemic.

Under a quarter of the Legal and General’s 2,350 employees in Hove are still working in the company’s City Park office.

One worker told The Argus they felt the firm was risking people’s health and safety.

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“We are not essential workers,” the employee said.

“They are risking our health and the county’s health.

“We are sitting at work not working as there is nothing to do.

“Other companies such as American Express have already sent most of their workforce home.”

A Legal and General spokeswoman said all employees who could work were home were being encouraged to do so.

  • Are you still having to got to work? Email news@theargus.co.uk

And she said measures had been put in place to ensure workers could practise social distancing.

But the firm is prepared to close offices if it sees the need.

“Over three quarters of our people in Hove are able to work remotely and are now doing so,” she said.

“We have encouraged all those in risk categories, or who have concerns, to follow guidance and work remotely.

“For those people who are in our office, we have put in place measures so they are able to practise social distancing in line with the Public Health England guidelines.

“Our contingency planning is well prepared against eventualities including the need to close offices.

“The safety and health of our colleagues across the country, including in Hove, is our top priority."

Yesterday Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered all “non-essential” business premises to close.

Government guidance urges anyone who is able to work from home to do so.

It considers those working in "essential financial services" as key workers.

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal.  Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund.