The new government promised to introduce the ‘right to switch off’ but it still isn’t clear what this new right will look like and there is no timetable to implement.
With the constant online connectivity that we have nowadays e.g. laptops, smart phones and other various digital devices they can lead to stress, burnout, and a decline in overall employee wellbeing.
What can an employer do to help employees disconnect?
As an employer you need to think about ways that employees can disconnect so they aren’t expected to be available outside of their working hours and respond to constant emails and messages.
One option is utilising technology – it can be key to helping employees by: –
- Send pre-timed emails so the employee does not receive it before or after business hours, weekends or during annual leave
- Enable any notifications to be paused or muted outside of working hours or be automatically deleted or diverted
- Include footers or messages in emails to remind employees that there is no requirement to reply to emails out of hours this will remind them of the ‘right to switch off’
- Employees can state their working hours in the footer of their email
- Avoid having to install work-related apps on an employee’s personal device – provide them with a work device where the app can be installed
Guildford HR support small local businesses in the Surrey area. If you need HR support, contact one of our experts on 01483 362732 or hello@guildford-hr.co.uk for a free of charge discovery call. Guildford HR Services Brochure
