Our current policy aims to help us achieve the right balance between the following 4 key elements:
- the efficiency and effectiveness of individuals
- the efficiency and effectiveness of the individual's immediate team
- the efficiency and effectiveness of the interaction between teams across the council when delivering services to residents and communities
- our ability to regenerate our workforce for the long term
Under this policy, there is currently a minimum requirement for flexible workers to work from their base location at least 1 day per week (averaged over a 4 week period) – there is no maximum number of days and many colleagues choose to work from the office more regularly.
Our new administration has expressed a view that they would like to see colleagues working from the office around 3 days a week to support our collaborative culture. If our review of the policy suggests that we should make changes to working patterns, these will be made in consultation with colleagues and trade unions as appropriate before seeking formal approval. We will also consult with our property team to ensure that we can provide appropriate workspaces for a larger number of colleagues.
We will keep you updated on any proposed changes to our working arrangements policy.