Remote and Hybrid Working Guidance
Find useful resources and services on how to manage wellbeing while working remotely or in a hybrid work environment.
Remote working has become a popular way of working as there are plenty of benefits for both employers and employees. But it’s not always easy, especially when adjusting from the traditional 9-5 in an office environment. Providing all remote employees with a productive workplace is a complicated task for organisations and working from home can feel isolating. Office environments allow regular conversations throughout the day and we often become friends with colleagues. Collaboration, communication and loneliness are some of the biggest struggles for remote workers.
Advice for employees
Every Mind Matters has 6 simple tips:
- Set and stick to a routine
- Give yourself a break
- Make a dedicated workspace
- Stay connected
- Set boundaries
- Think longer term
- Further support and advice
Cotswoldco provide a detailed guide on creating a healthy and productive workspace at home, including:
- An introduction to remote working
- Creating a productive workspace
- Maintaining a work-life balance
- Useful links to additional resources to learn more about remote working.
The Mayo Clinic offers a comprehensive how-to guide on office ergonomics to avoid some of the health problems associated with seated work, such as neck and back pain and sore wrists and shoulders.
You may be able to claim tax relief for additional household costs if you have to work at home for all or part of the week.
Support for Managers
Cranfield Trust share some of the basic good practice for managers when managing remotely. This blog emphasises the importance of structure and relationship maintenance in successfully navigating the challenges of working from home. Tips include:
- Helping your team understand their common goals is essential as you move into working remotely for the foreseeable future.
- Bring structure to the working week, for the individual and the team.
- In your 121s create a rhythm that you and others can rely on, creating norms and practices over a period of time.
- Consider how you structure meetings.
- Recognise it will be challenging to sustain shared understanding and relations remotely over an extended period, and time and effort is needed by all parties.
CharityJobs Blog – Navigating the challenges of supporting mental health in remote workers is explored in CharityJobs’ blog. The blog offers practical tips on checking in on remote employees and setting boundaries to ensure long-term mental health support
Employers have a responsibility to assess potential hazards that come from equipment or the environment in a home workplace. TUC emphasises the importance of employers conducting risk assessments to address issues such as inadequate breaks, juggling childcare, and working alone.