Homeworking on an extended/long term basis

There may be other circumstances where there is a business case for homeworking on an extended or long-term basis by an individual or by a team. Such circumstances include arrangements agreed under the agreements which give parents and carers the right to request adjustments to their working patterns.

Where such arrangements are approved, the University and employee will agree that the employee’s home will be the place of work for part of their contractual hours on a long-term or permanent basis.

Communication

To facilitate effective communication, team working and management and to minimise the risks of isolation, employees should normally be expected to undertake the majority of their role at the University.

Trial basis

It is advisable that homeworking arrangements are initially agreed on a trial basis, subject to review after a fixed period.

Decisions and arrangements

Decisions should be taken by the Head of Service/College Manager following consultation with their Human Resources Business Partner/Manager/Adviser, taking account of this guidance.

The arrangement should be confirmed in writing (using a template letter prepared by Human Resources).

The written confirmation should advise the employee that the University reserves the right to withdraw homeworking arrangements - with appropriate notification and following consultation, for example, in the event of a change in business circumstances or where there are concerns about the effectiveness of the homeworking arrangement.