Employees calling for more flexibility, says union

CWU representative Mark Elwen says his West Yorkshire branch is now receiving more and more enquiries from members about flexible, or ‘smart’ working as it being called. That is working some of the time at home and some of the time in the office.

“We have seen some employers make a major shift in offering workers the opportunity to work from home permanently while others are insisting that all workers return to the office, but it does not have to be all or nothing,” explains Mark.

Mark says that it is the flexibility of the workforce which has kept many companies going during the pandemic. At the same time many workers have benefitted from fewer commutes and the time that frees up for home life.

Mark is keen to point out though that this is not a ‘one size fits all’ option for employers or employees.

“Home working has caused problems for workers as well as providing benefits. What it has shown though is that there are many different ways home working can be adapted to help workers and employers.”

He adds: “We see this as a great opportunity to make a break from traditional ways of working, an opportunity that workers along with their trade unions should take up with employers.”

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