UK Government says workers ‘need to be able to switch off’ | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
‘need to be able to switch off’
Downing Street has defended plans to give employees the right to switch off from work messages outside office hours. The new government is received out of hours, without fear of reprisals. The proposals, being spearheaded by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, have faced backlash from businesses and the Conservatives. However, Sir Keir Starmer’s spokeswoman insisted that the plans could increase productivity in Britain. The government’s plans will come in the form of non-binding guidance in a new code of practice for businesses. The TUC has welcomed the plans, stating that no one should be pushed to the brink because of their job. The No10 spokeswoman confirmed ministers were examining models that “support productivity and work flexibility” but said it would be down to individual employers to act. “The government is committed to making work pay and ensuring that working people are protected from exploitative practices and also are supported to ensure that employers are assisting them to be as productive as possible,” she said, adding “We know that, and indeed good employers understand that, for workers to stay motivated they need to be able to switch off. That is good for productivity but of course situations may vary, and people work in different fields and there are circumstances where people do need to be contacted out of hours. ‘That is why there is wider work looking at this issue and different models that we have seen in different countries and looking at this issue more broadly. “Exploring plans to allow workers to avoid emails, texts, and phone calls
Potential Benefits
- Improved Employee Wellbeing: Allowing workers to switch off can significantly reduce stress and burnout, leading to healthier and more productive employees.
- Increased Productivity: A well-rested workforce is often more productive and motivated during working hours.
- Better Work Relationships: Clear boundaries between work and personal life can improve overall job satisfaction and employee retention.
Potential Challenges
- Implementation Costs: Businesses might incur costs in implementing new systems and policies to ensure compliance with the right to disconnect.
- Resistance from Employers: Some employers may resist such changes, particularly if they rely on flexibility from their workforce outside standard hours.
- Monitoring Compliance: Ensuring all businesses adhere to the new regulations could be challenging and require robust monitoring mechanisms.
Our HR comment:
UK Government says workers ‘need to be able to switch off’ | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds
Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR comments, “The UK Government’s stance on allowing workers to “switch off” reflects a growing recognition of the importance of work-life balance. If implemented and following the non-binding Code of Practice, these changes could reshape employment cultures significantly, emphasising employee wellbeing and sustainable work practices.
At Consensus HR, we always advice our clients to not be contacting member of the team, regardless of role when not working as this is their time! However, in exceptional circumstances, it may need to happen, but managers / businesses should keep a record of when this is happening and why and take the appropriate action as it should always be the exception and not the norm! If it becomes the ‘norm’, the management of the company need to fully investigate for the benefit of the team’s welfare.”
To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services
Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?
Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.
For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:
