The UK Government announced last week that we are entering a new phase of the pandemic — one where we now learn to live with COVID-19. On 24 February 2022, all domestic COVID-19 regulations restricting public freedoms came to an end. We are now being encouraged to act reasonably and use our discretion. What do these changes mean for employers?
Health and Safety England’s guidelines on continuing to work safely during COVID-19 remain in place. Some of the more detailed guidance is due to be updated in light of recent government announcements, so keep an eye on any changes to that over the coming weeks. Failure to follow this guidance can lead to serious sanctions for companies and their directors, including fines, imprisonment and disqualification.
Employers should now look at what working patterns have been adopted and whether anything needs to change over the coming months. This might mean a phased return to the office, permanent hybrid working or an immediate full-time return to the office. Business needs, market standards and company culture will all influence that approach.
If an employee is denied the hybrid working arrangement they are looking for through informal channels then, provided they have more than six months of service, they can submit a more formal flexible working request. Requests should be considered in accordance with the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) guidance and...
Ukrainian General Staff spokesperson Andriy Kovalov dismissed Russian military chief Valery Gerasimov's claims of advances toward Kramatorsk and Zaporizhzhia and the capture of several settlements...