U.K. Pushes for Flexible Work and “Right to Disconnect” to Improve Workforce Productivity

The U.K. government, under new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, is backing flexible work policies in a push to address a “culture of presenteeism” that officials say is decreasing productivity levels across the workforce. 

The government’s new strategy promises increased support for working from home and the introduction of a “right to switch off” policy to align with work practices seen in other nations like Belgium and France. 

According to a report by Tech Radar, presenteeism refers to companies enforcing a minimum number of in-office days — a process that has come under scrutiny for its questionable impact on workplace productivity.  

Rather than improving output, presenteeism can often lead to demotivated employees who feel they must be seen at their desks for the mere sake of being present. The BBC reports the Prime Minister deputy spokesperson said, “Good employers understand that for workers to stay motivated and productive, they do need to be able to switch off.” 

Central to Labour’s successful general election campaign were economic policies promising to transform the workforce through job creation and major flexible workplace reforms. A particular spotlight has been cast in recent months on the party’s ambitious New Deal for Working People, which includes the right to switch off. 

To support boosting productivity levels, it’s reported that Downing Street is determined to introduce a right to switch off policy to ensure that employees are not contacted outside of work hours. U.K. ministers are planning to establish codes of practice to help businesses navigate and enforce these policies effectively. 

The U.K. government’s endorsement of flexible work coincides with changing employment practices globally that are shaping the future of work. By promoting policies that promote greater work-life balance, policy makers hope to better meet the new demands of modern businesses and their employees.