Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Corporate Resources seeking

EHCC agreement to implement a new Open Workplace Policy for

Council members of staff.

The Employment in Hampshire County Council (EHCC) Committee considered a report of the Director of Corporate Resources regarding the proposal to implement a new Open Workplace Policy for Council members of staff.

It was reported that staff had responded excellently during the pandemic and continued to perform effectively and deliver services, in many cases working from home. It was proposed to maintain this flexibility going forwards, to achieve the benefits to both the organisation and staff as listed in the report. It was expected this would result in a permanent shift in the use of the councils office space. It was highlighted that this did not mean contractually requiring staff to work from home. Most staff would continue to be required to work from a designated premises at least part of the time, to carry out their role effectively.

It was noted that subject to EHCC agreement and consultation with trade unions it was planned to implement the policy from April 2021. Members asked questions for clarification and commented on the proposed approach.

RESOLVED:

That the Employment in Hampshire County Council Committee agree that:

·         The Council implements an Open Workplace Policy as attached at appendix A to the report.

·         Delegate to the Director of Corporate Resources the authority to make any final amendments to the Open Workplace Policy that are agreed following consultation with trade union representatives and any ongoing amendments that arise from the future application of this policy.