By Brits could get default right to work from home after Covid
Workers could be given the right to work from home by default under new post-pandemic plans.
The proposals would change the law to block employers from insisting staff attend the workplace, unless it is essential to their job.
The Tories pledged to extend “flexible working” in their 2019 manifesto – but the plans were held back by Covid.
A consultation will now be held late this year, officials have confirmed.
The latest government guidance says that employees should work from home where possible. But if you can’t do your job from home, you can be called in to work.
Getty
Brits could be granted the right to work from home forever under shock post-pandemic plans being considered by the government.
Ministers have proposed legal changes that would prevent employers from forcing staff to come into the office unless they can prove it is essential.
Employers must ensure there are certain safety measures in place before allowing workers to return.
These include increasing the distance between workstations to allow for social distancing, and encouraging mask-wearing when walking around the building.
The government had hoped to end all legal restrictions at the now-delayed step four roadmap date of July 19.
Matt Hancock supported the idea in comments almost a year ago. The Health Secretary said flexible working is the “new norm” and was something all “good employers” should accommodate moving forward.
Asked if he would consider enforcing this through legislation, he replied “yes”, adding: “the way you could look at it is there’s a right to request flexible working.”
Facebook is one of the many organisations who will let all employees who can work away from the office do so after the Covid pandemic is over.
The company has told employees “anyone whose role can be done remotely can request remote work”.
Contact Gi National
Email us: news@gi-media.co.uk
