2nd May 2025
The working from home survey results, of which 182 people responded, complements work related to the People Promise theme of ‘we work flexibly’, highlight insights similar to those found in the staff survey:
- Increased Productivity and Efficiencies: Many respondents reported that they are able to accomplish more tasks and work more efficiently when working from home.
- Better Work-Life Balance: Respondents have found it easier to manage their personal and professional lives, leading to greater overall satisfaction.
- Home Life Challenges: Despite the benefits, there are some challenges associated with working from home. For example, 32% of respondents do not have a spare room or office to use, and 40% are working in living spaces like bedrooms, garages, or kitchens.
- Wellbeing Concerns: 64% of respondents have worked when not fully well, and 83% have worked additional unpaid hours frequently. There is also a notable percentage of respondents experiencing a loss of connection and feeling lonely.
- Leadership and Support: Inconsistencies were reported around awareness of equipment provision, and 75% of respondents have purchased their own office furniture. It was evident that there’s a range of approaches regarding the use of MS Teams, cameras, child and pet care etc which has highlighted a need to provide further guidance.
Where is this information being used?
- It has guided the work from home guidance documents for leaders and colleagues, providing support for structured conversations and signposting for further information. These will be available once they have been approved at policy group.
- It will support people who line manage people who work from home and help raise awareness in the range of individualised experiences.
- It will inform the ongoing site optimisation group and estates strategy work as it has highlighted that a different model is required for our future estate.
- Wellbeing services are utilising information as they develop resources to assist all colleagues which should also be available soon.
- Take personal responsibility. Make adaptions where you can and ask for support where you need it.
- If you are wanting to work with others in person more frequently, book a hot desk and make it happen! Suggest more frequent team get togethers, look for an office that a few people could come together occasionally etc.
- Make time to keep in touch with people. Connections are important.
- Critically look at your home set up. If it isn’t suitable, explore what options you have for ordering equipment, using a different part of your home etc. Ask colleagues to offer support by using your camera to show them your set up. What does good look like?
Other key points for your WFM office space:
- A clutter free environment
- Second screen, and laptop on a riser
- Screens away from direct sunlight
- Adjustable chair with lumbar support
- Consider a stand-up desk
- People have noticed that they are generally more relaxed and happier, experiencing a reduction in stress
- Better work life balance being able to manage personal and professional lives
- Reduction in travel costs and driving stress
- Increased productivity
- Easier to support personal health
- Easier to contact managers and colleagues
- Reduction in office politics
- Personalised, comfortable and flexible work environment
- More control over personal schedules and can structure their days to fit their personal needs and preferences
- Access to varied and potentially healthier lunch options
- Supports staying healthier as around less people carrying germs.