As England begins to open up once again and lockdown restrictions are slowly being lifted as we pass the peak of the coronavirus crisis, businesses can start to think about whether now is the right time to start a phased return to office work and getting back on a more even keel over the next few months.
Managers would certainly be wise to pay close attention to the emotional and mental health and wellbeing of their staff at this time, as it’s likely that many of them may well feel anxious about getting back to their desks after spending so much time working from home.
New research from Bupa Health Clinics has just revealed that some 65 per cent of people are in fact anxious about going back to the office, with the biggest worry being social distancing within office spaces, Cover Magazine reports.
Other top concerns among those surveyed were the possible spread of infection on the commute to and from work, and worries that the office won’t be hygienic enough.
Commercial director at Bupa Health Clinics Alaana Linney recommended introducing policies to allow for flexible working and working from home, educating yourself on different scenarios, as well as how to support people with bereavement and mental health issues, and providing access to services to help people focus on their health and wellbeing.
Perhaps your business is looking for an office upgrade to allow for better social distancing measures? If so Belchak Corin & Co. can assist every step of the way in and around Shorditch. You may also find it useful to read their recent blog post on how to facilitate a safe return to work for your staff members, covering the likes of barriers between workstations, staggered shift patterns and no hotdesking.