Widespread working from home set to continue in 2021

In efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus back in March, Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised the public to work from home where possible.

Nearly half (46.6 per cent) of all those in employment did at least some work at home the following month, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) - with many setting up a home office for the first time.

Over nine months on, many employees are set to enter the new year still working remotely from their kitchen tables or bedrooms, while for some it is unlikely they will ever return to the office full-time.

Dr Alan Redman, an organisational psychologist, said policy makers and employers need to ensure staff are fully equipped to work from home in the long-term.

“The bigger picture is actually, societies, governments, employers, all need to make sure the capabilities are there for people working from home, like fast broadband,” he said.

“Employers who are saving money on offices should be spending money on employees’ set-up at home.”

He said while some organisations may welcome all employees back to the office when a vaccine has been fully rolled out, he believes most will take a “more balanced view” and require only a few days a week.

Dr Redman advised making an office space at home wherever possible to improve concentration and focus.

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James Mitchinson