Future of Work

In the last few weeks COVID 19 has dramatically changed the way we live and work.  With those that can now working entirely from home, we've seen employers and employees embrace (whether willingly or not) technology to continue working.  Other employers face the stark choice of having to furlough employees or look at other options to save costs for businesses and services affected by the lock down or other social distancing, or simply work which cannot be done remotely.  And at the same time, employers in the health and social care sectors have to try to ensure staff, patient and service user safety while working flat out to manage those at risk and those suffering from the virus. 

For all employers, in the short to medium term the Future Of Work may look very different.  

For the last few weeks of course we've been discussing all the changes to do with COVID 19 and you can find all our latest updates in the 'Have you seen'  section.  If you're not already signed up to receive our updates, you can do so here.  

We're also advising on how to carry on 'business as normal' for those that can, with workforces now disbursed to their homes.  What is best practice on looking after employee wellbeing remotely?  When can we require someone to come in with social distancing measures in place?  How do you conduct a grievance hearing over video?  Is it reasonable to postpone a disciplinary hearing during the lock down?  These are all questions we're being asked.  

Looking forward, the swift adaptation to remote working may have implications for how we live and work in the future.  It's impossible to crystal ball gaze at the moment, but having invested in the technology to enable remote working, will employers continue to embrace flexibility and reduce office space in the future?  Will video conferencing become the new normal?  

In the meantime, we wish all our clients and readers good health and the strength to deal with the current challenges.