Issue - meetings

The Committee considered and approved the recommendation of the Local Joint Panel meeting held on 7 June 2017 on a revised Home Working Policy.

RESOLVED – that the revised Home Working Policy, as now submitted, be approved.

(see Minute xxx above)

The Secretary to the Employer’s Side submitted a report on a revised Home Working Policy to reflect legislative changes and best practice.  The Secretary to the Employer’s Side provided a summary of the changes, including the ability to appeal home working arrangements.

In response to a query from Councillor A Alder regarding the number of staff actively working as home workers, the Secretary to the Employer’s Side explained that of the (approximately) 350 staff, 50-60 staff were regular home workers (actual 66), and that 30-40 staff worked  in Revenues and Benefits (actual 59).

Councillor A Alder expressed concern about feelings of isolation and the impact this might have on the wellbeing and mental health of staff.  The Secretary to the Employer’s Side provided a summary of the steps taken by the Head of Service to ensure that chat links, (1:1) training and communication with home workers were open and accessible on a daily basis. 

The Secretary to the Employer’s Side acknowledged the Council’s Duty of Care to its staff which had prompted the revision to the Policy, as now submitted.

The Panel recommended to Human Resources Committee, approval of the report, as now detailed.

RECOMMENDED – that the revised Home Working Policy, as now submitted, be approved.