Monthly Archives: November 2020

News, Remote Working

Homeworking here to stay for nine in 10 businesses as social restrictions tighten

Homeworking is set to become a permanent fixture for thousands of UK businesses as nine in 10 (86%) plan to offer more remote working options to their employees. The new research, commissioned by Zen Internet, found that the drive towards homeworking has been accelerated by the pandemic – with almost half (49%) saying their plans to expand remote working came as a result of Covid-19.

Businesses looking to offer more remote working options are clamouring to do so with a level of urgency. Seven in 10 (70%) plan to act within the next year and one in four (24%) are looking at between one and two years to implement. This marks a step change in business attitudes – only one in five (19%) offered and encouraged remote working as an option to their entire workforce pre-March 2020.

A number of big technology and financial services firms such as Google, Microsoft, Schroders and PwC have highlighted their intention to stick with remote working, and today’s research follows a BBC survey which suggested that 50 of the biggest UK employers had no plans to return all staff to the office full-time in the near future.

Whilst businesses are eager to adopt homeworking, they are wary of teething issues and the need for infrastructure to support such modern, flexible working practices. With the rise of the prosumer which has been further facilitated by remote working reliable, ultrafast connectivity is key to thriving.

Top three teething troubles imperilling productivity for large businesses and SMEs

• Almost half (46%) of SMEs say that poor internet connections in staff homes is a major challenge, compared to a third (34%) of large businesses
• One in five SMEs (21%) and large businesses (18%) say staff are unable to access the company system from home
• One in 10 (12%) SMEs and one in six (17%) large businesses reference poor integration of communication systems as barriers to a smooth remote working process

These challenges are leading businesses to question whether they are fit for a remote working future with one in five (17%) that plan to offer more flexible working options stating they do not yet feel prepared.

New technologies for a new era

With homeworking embedding itself into company cultures, and colleagues suddenly spread across different locations, many businesses are looking to new technologies to support alternate ways of communicating with both internal and external stakeholders. Half (50%) of businesses are already using a cloud-based solution for integrating their communications channels, such as voice and video. This is the case for six in 10 (60%) large businesses, but only two fifths (40%) of SMEs. When it comes to future intentions, 45% of businesses do not currently use a cloud-based solution but would consider it. Almost two fifths (38%) of large businesses identify with this, compared to over half (53%) of SMEs.

This trend towards cloud communications looks set to accelerate, but companies are also looking at other technology to support their digital transformation. For example, a fifth (20%) of businesses say that over the next year they will prioritise investing in unified communications as a whole. Over the same period, more than a fifth (22%) of businesses will look to invest in providing / subsidising the cost of better home connectivity for their employees that work from home on a regular basis. Meanwhile, two fifths (39%) of businesses will invest in laptops and smart devices.

Paul Stobart, CEO, Zen Internet, said:

“The trend towards remote working signals a departure from the orthodoxy of the office. Accelerated by Covid-19, the phenomenon is set to root itself into our working lives as employers eye office space savings and employees crave the convenience of working from home on a regular basis. In particular, the rise of the prosumer has meant that reliable, ultrafast connectivity in the home is absolutely an essential commodity.

“Businesses of all sizes will need to adapt to this cultural shift in modern working practices by taking a pragmatic approach and adopting new technologies which can support the transition to remote working. This will ensure businesses can continue to communicate effectively with their customers, clients and colleagues.

“Whilst many businesses are equipping themselves for a remote future – embracing new, cloud-based communications solutions – some appear less prepared for new ways of working. These businesses should research their options and act now so that the challenges of dated technology and listless IT systems can be avoided down the line.”

News, Security

Crowd protection experts Crowdguard launch innovative Covid-19 and weapons attack mitigation “gateway”

A new crowd protection solution with the potential to transform the way we enter large-gathering events and venues has just been launched.

Crowdgate is an innovative health protective and weapons detection solution specially designed to mitigate risks to eventgoers health and safety in major-event settings in the COVID era.

Crowdgate was developed by Manchester-based crowd protection experts Crowdguard in response to recent rises in aggressive, anti-social behaviour as well as the very real threat of a COVID-spreading (or superspreading) incident.

A solution which may help to turn the tide for UK venues beleaguered by lockdowns and their residual effects, Crowdgate aims to get the events industry in motion again – safely, smoothly and cost-effectively.

With pre-event health screening, Crowdgate’s bespoke, platform-based Application Programming Interface (API) interface asks attendees to answer health-related questions before allowing them to download their unique QR entry code. On-site, Crowdgate bio-cabins are equipped with mask dispenser, hand sanitiser dispenser with fully customisable LED screen, as well as automatic temperature-checking and facial recognition cameras. Upon completing these steps, attendees register their QR code via Crowdgate’s integrated reader, passing through a turnstile and, finally, through a metal detector.

Crowdguard director Deborah Ainscough comments: “It’s crucial to our national economy and the jobs of thousands of individuals in the events industry that venues are able to access solutions which enable them to operate safely and efficiently. Crowdgate has been developed as a proactive means of protecting event attendees from the spread of COVID-19 and from weapons attacks. Because eventgoers must complete each step before proceeding to the next part of the process, Crowdgate ensures that every attendee is properly screened in an automated, controlled and contactless environment.”

A game-changing innovation

Developed in liaison with leading professionals from across diverse fields of event and crisis management, public health, crowd control and counter-terrorism, Crowdgate augments the company’s current offering, which includes its flagship product, Surface Guard Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barrier.

Surface Guard, Crowdguard’s crash-tested IWA14 pedestrian permeable barrier, was named Physical Security Product of the Year at the Counter Terror Awards 2019 and is used in cities across the UK in the protection of crowds and pedestrianisation of city streets.

Leveraging a national geographic framework, in-house fleet of heavy lifting vehicles and highly skilled and experienced technicians, Crowdguard works with sister company Ainscough Industrial Services to ensure rapid deployment and installation, for a fast and efficient service and faultless integrity.

Deborah Ainscough, Director at Crowdguard, adds, “We are committed to providing a one-stop shop for venue and event management teams, which is why we’ve partnered with Crowd Dynamics, who work closely with us to deliver effective crowd movement, modelling, planning and management. Insights from our partners inform each bespoke Crowdguard product configuration, so that our offering and the protection provided to eventgoers represent truly comprehensive and effective solutions. This, combined with in-house deployment, installation and removal, means that the service is hassle-free and cost-effective, and we understand these two qualities are really essential for players in the events industry given the current conditions.”

Crowdgate: designed for flexibility

A fully scalable containerised health protective and weapons detection solution, Crowdgate’s surface-mounted design allows for temporary or semi-permanent use, and is ideal for events lasting a single evening or several months.
With rapid deployment, Crowdgate can be installed in diverse settings including stadia, sports grounds, exhibition centres, conference suites, outdoor marketplaces, fairgrounds, racecourses, public gardens, private estates and more.
It allows venues to satisfy new, stricter regulatory requirements related to the forthcoming ‘Martyn’s Law’, under which venues will be responsible for incident response plans and exercises, increased training and airport-style security measures. It is also a cost-effective solution, as it allows stewards to look after guests with specific needs on a case-by-case basis, as others smoothly gain entrance to the venue. As a result, fewer on-site personnel are needed to carry out screening and checks, reducing staffing and training costs.

Used together with Crowdguard’s Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barriers, the equipment allows venues and event management teams to exercise an appropriate duty of care and operate with confidence that significant risks for crowded spaces have been mitigated, including the use of a vehicle as a weapon of attack, delivery of vehicle-borne IED, offensive weapons and, in the COVID era, the threat of spreading infection.

Crowdguard products allow event attendees and staff to enjoy and work at the venue with peace of mind, in full confidence that their health and safety are being well looked after.

Charity & CSR, News

Leading Two Person Delivery Specialists Pedal for Pounds

Staff at the leading two-person delivery company ArrowXL are embarking upon a huge cycling challenge in Worcester to raise funds for Children in Need this week. Partnering with ArrowXL, client Apex Rides are supporting the challenge and the Worcester leadership team are overseeing the effort.

Staff will cycle 885km on an Apex Rides exercise bike (the distance around the Worcester out bases) to raise money for Children in Need. The team hopes to complete the challenge across three days. Volunteer cyclists will complete 20—40 minute sessions each in a bid to match the £630 already raised at the recent ArrowXL Worcester Macmillan Coffee Morning.

Charlie Shiels, CEO, said: “The Pedal for Pounds cycle ride is a really impressive fundraising effort. It’s a huge task and one that will be physically demanding on the team. Children in Need is a fantastic charity, and our teams wanted to set a bold and ambitious challenge to acknowledge and support the work of the charity, and their attitude has been inspiring throughout this endeavour.”

Pedal for Pounds is just one of the charity fundraising initiatives ArrowXL Worcester has launched this week alongside car washes, tombola and fancy dress competitions.
If you’d like to donate to Children in Need, you can visit the team’s donation page: https://lnkd.in/dGByxtT

Energy, News

Tackling ‘hidden’ energy costs could save big businesses millions and reduce energy consumption

Pubs, restaurants, supermarkets and banks are just a few of the energy consumers who could save up to 30% on ‘hidden’ energy costs whilst increasing energy efficiency by 10%* thanks to smart use of data produced every 30 minutes.

Businesses that use automated half-hourly electricity meters may be unaware they are being charged by third-party agents, chosen by their energy supplier, to collect and validate energy use.

Eunice Mabey, Energy Optimisation Manager at SSE Enterprise Distributed Energy, said businesses across the UK could enjoy substantial cost and efficiency benefits by having their data services managed on a bespoke basis.

She said: “We are new to this market; and can therefore bring in what we feel is some fresh thinking. Our aim is to modernise commercial energy consumption so that we can best help businesses on their journey to net zero carbon emissions.

“New technology means we can analyse data forensically to create a clear picture of exactly how energy is being used in one building or across an estate every 30 minutes.

“Many businesses are unaware that they can choose their own provider for these data services. By choosing their own advisor, businesses can make significant savings on energy contracts and have the assurance that energy invoices are independently assessed and are more accurate.”

SSE has brought together a specialist team of half hourly market experts to help thousands of SSE sites overcome the hidden cost of default data aggregation.

The new Half Hourly Data Collection and Aggregation service launches this week with bespoke dashboard reporting allowing for easy analysis of electricity data, and proactive data management to ensure accuracy ahead of the industry-wide move into Market Wide Half Hourly Settlement next year following the rollout of Smart meters.

*According to the Carbon Trust, effectively managed energy data can reduce energy usage by up to 10%, saving commercial customers thousands of pounds on their average bills.

For more information on SSE Enterprise’s DC/DA service, visit: https://sseenergyoptimisation.co.uk/our-solutions/business-energy-intelligence/ or contact: hhdataservices@sse.com

Home Improvements, News, Property

Six considerations for creating your perfect ‘forever home’

Homeowners or buyers wishing to settle down in a ‘forever home’ can look to these six simple considerations when creating a house to call a home.

A ‘forever home’ is a property that suits requirements in the short and long term – so it needs to be a flexible space to fall in love with. Whether future plans are growing a family, downsizing and retiring, or making a return on investment, it’s important to consider how a living space can be shaped to meet specific needs and goals.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdown has prompted many to consider whether it’s time to move to a new house or start improvements on current properties. When it comes to making your home work for you, the property experts at Stormclad have shared their thoughts on achieving your ideal ‘forever home’.

John Evans, managing director of Stormclad, said: “With everyone spending more time in their own homes, now is the ideal time to either carry out exciting upgrades on existing properties, or search for your next home, to improve your quality of living.

“Here at Stormclad, we have more than 20 years’ experience in helping our customers transform their houses into dream homes. Whether it’s deciding what can be done to a current property now, or assessing whether a new property has the potential for extensions and improvements in the future, we wanted to share our tips on ways you can add value and quality features to your home, that will last the test of time.”

Here are six things to consider for your ‘forever home’:

1. An extension to create space
Adding an extension is undoubtedly one of the biggest changes you can make to your home – whether you’d like to extend the kitchen, add a utility or study room, or an extra bedroom – there is plenty of scope for you to enhance your home with the additional space an extension provides.

An extension will almost always add value to a property, so it is well-worth the investment once you have done your research and secured planning permission.

If you are looking to buy a new home, consider whether there is potential to extend the house at some point in the future. Local estate agents will be able to offer you advice, and you can also look to other properties in the neighbourhood to see whether they have benefited from an extension, so you know that you have the option, if you decide it’s something you want.

2. Maximising the space available
For the interior of your home, consider where you can create spaces of value for yourself and your family. In these uncertain times, with many people staying at home and working remotely, it is important to create suitable, comfortable spaces for yourself and your household to ensure a good living quality for everyone. Quiet, tranquil spaces for relaxation and reading, a study for working, and a well-maintained garden are just a few suggestions when considering how to ensure your property is a ‘forever home’.

3. Outdoor space
An often under-utilised area of the home is the garden – whether you’d like to transform it into a children’s play area, a space for your pets or an alfresco dining and relaxing spot, there are easy ways you can improve your outside space for the long run.

If you want a dry outdoor space for your summer barbecues or winter fire pit, then consider adding a veranda to your property. Whatever the British weather has to throw at you, adding a veranda to the exterior of your home provides a stylish shelter from the sun and the rain.

4. Invest in upkeep and quality appliances
One of the easiest ways to ensure your house is a ‘forever home’ is to commit to a regular maintenance regime to keep everything running smoothly and looking and feeling fresh.

Adding a new layer of paint, deep cleaning carpets and investing in new blinds or stylish shutters are just some of the ways you can update and refresh your home quickly and easily, so that it remains a place you enjoy being. If you’re moving into a new home, these are simple steps you can take to stamp your own personality on a property straight away.

It is also worth investing in quality fixtures in the home – appliances and electronics such as ovens, fridge freezers, tech, heating controls and dishwashers are worth spending a little extra money on as their quality means they will last much longer than cheaper alternatives.

5. Money-saving double glazing
Windows are one of the areas most prone to heat loss in the home, with single paned windows capable of emitting around 84% of a room’s heat. To safeguard your home for the future, consider investing in double glazing to retain heat in your property and save money.

Installing double glazed windows will retain the heat in your home by trapping a layer of air between two panes of glass which stops the air from circulating, resulting in a decrease of heat loss across the window. With modern double-glazed windows, the space between the panes is often filled with denser argon gas which will slow down heat loss even further.

Older windows can look outdated, so replacing them with a durable frame such as aluminium, will transform the look of your home outside and in and continue to look smart over time.

6. A spacious conservatory
A brand-new conservatory extension is a great way to add a light and airy room to your home. The versatile space is ideal for a whole host of uses, and can function as a dining room, playroom, living area or home office.

This option may suit you and your family more than choosing a traditional extension, as it provides a space with a different feel to the rest of the home and helps to bring the outdoors in with plenty of natural light.

COVID-19, News

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ADHERING TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS

Dr Lynda Shaw, neuroscientist, business psychologist and change specialist, considers the psychology behind adhering to Covid-19 restrictions

Being under Covid-19 related social restrictions for most of the year, now being back in national lockdown with infection rates spiralling out of control again, the long-term reality of Covid-19 is a frightening and unknown prospect. There is in addition a lot of confusion and restriction fatigue, but putting aside any political frustrations, why do we struggle to adhere to the guidelines and rules and what can we do to help?

1. The long-term reality… Whilst there have been periods in which restrictions were eased, our freedoms have been curtailed in a more permanent than originally thought way, leaving many of us feeling overwhelmed and disheartened. Most difficult of all is not knowing what is going to happen next and when this unprecedented time will be behind us. For now, living in the present and knowing that this isn’t forever may be the mindset that will help many of us get through.

2. Not naturally compliant… Unlike other societies around the world where they take their leader’s word as law, we are more likely to openly question our politicians. At the beginning of lockdown, adherence to restrictions amongst the Brits was very high, but increasing frustration and feelings of defeat of those who have been adhering to the rules means they too may start taking increased risks.

3. Lack of trust… Trust is essential in difficult times, but trust is at an all-time low. Brits don’t trust that their jobs, their health or that of their families are safe. There is also a lack of trust in the leaders making the decisions that are affecting all our futures. If the trust isn’t there when we are being told to do something, then the rules are less likely to be adhered to. Honesty, transparency, and being authentic, timely and decisive are key.

4. Economic pressures… are practical barriers to adherence to rules. You are more likely to take risks if you are struggling with money and have a sense of personal unfairness.

5. Weighing up the cost. When deciding to embark on any major health treatment, we need a reason to believe the treatment is helpful even if the side effects are unpleasant or reduce quality of life or we feel anxious about it. We have to know the benefits outweigh risks. In the case of Covid-19 there is a split between focusing on public health versus the effect on the economy and other areas of physical and mental health. Focusing on the benefits rather than the side effects will help.

6. Confusion. Using the same analogy, equally many of us are confused about when and how much of the treatment is required. Because Covid-19 is a new disease we still lack knowledge and fake news, changing opinions and confusion means compliance will naturally be lower. Good clear communication about what is expected and why is essential. We need to fully understand the rationale to agree to comply.

7. It won’t happen to me – Those of us who believe we are unlikely to be at risk of Covid-19 are less likely to comply with regulations although we are more likely to adhere to rules if we think it will affect us or a loved one. Avoid statistic overload as it can be exhausting.

8. Personal action – If you believe your personal action will have an impact then you are more likely to comply. The slogan “Stay at home. Protect the NHS. Save lives.” was effective at the start of the lockdown because it was clear and asked for action to be taken be each individual. Building a sense of unity is important as is understanding why this is personal to each of us.

9. It is a very divisive time…with Covid-19. Brexit, the US election and George Floyd’s murder amongst just a few enormous issues we currently face, which means that agreement to follow guidelines are at risk. By being aware and respectful and listening well and putting others first we can get through this time with greater ease.

10. Young Adults…feel both thoroughly fed up and are naturally inclined to put their own needs first, but as a generation they are extremely compassionate so we need to stop blaming them and focus on showing them why they are so important and how they can help.

To learn more, visit www.drlyndashaw.com

Food & Drink

Tapas star brings Spanish sunshine into the lives of North Wales food lovers

A POPULAR Spanish sauce company has been bringing sunshine to the lives – and plates – of customers throughout the year.

Despite the challenges brought on by the Coronavirus pandemic, Beatriz Albo and the team at Wrexham-based Sabor de Amor worked hard to support local producers and communities by supplying a steady stream of their award-winning sauces and salsas.

Winner of the BBC’s Top of the Shops programme two years ago, Beatriz launched the business in 2015 using family recipes to create incredible flavours, including the much-loved Paella in a Bottle.

Having arrived in North Wales as a biology student in 1993, and later working as a teacher, she decided to go it alone after achieving success at farmers’ markets and food and drink festivals.

With the support of Taste Wales, she grew in confidence and was set to sign a major deal with a leading wholesaler in the Spring before Covid-19 took hold and thwarted those plans.

However, Beatriz – who has now been joined in the company by her son Albert, a Business Management graduate – has been busy forging new relationships and plans to unveil them in the months ahead.

“Going into the first lockdown we were just about to launch a new food service, it was a really exciting time, and everyone loved it,” said Beatriz, who hails from Salamanca.

“Then March came and suddenly the whole food sector was thrown into disarray, it was impossible to continue at that time.”

She added: “Like many businesses we had to pivot and try to be innovative to push on, and we learnt that when dealing with buyers – whatever the situation – that you have to be persistent.

“We worked hard behind the scenes, and Albert joining me has been a big boost, to try and take things to the next level, and in May managed to secured a contract with a leading online supermarket to sell the paella and salsa brava sauces.

“That was fantastic for us, and we are looking forward to announcing another new relationship with a major supplier next year.”

Beatriz has big plans for the future but insists nothing is more important than supporting local businesses, using the best local produce and “giving back” to her community.

She is also going to begin hosting regular Continental cookery demonstrations and tasting sessions online after the success of the event held with Marina Midolo from Marina’s Italian Cookery in Cyffylliog, near Ruthin, as part of this year’s Taste North East Wales virtual programme.

Making people happy is top priority for Sabor de Amor.

“In the summer we had a lot of feedback from people who had to cancelled holidays to Spain and the Mediterranean, so they bought some of our products to make their own dishes at home,” said Beatriz.

“I’m an emotional person so it meant so much to me hearing how someone’s birthday or celebration with family had been special because of us, and that we had made a difference.

“Bringing some sunshine into their lives and onto their plates, especially at such a sad and difficult time for everyone, was so important to us.”

And in the coming weeks Beatriz and the team will be going the extra mile to help those who need it most.

“We are going to be cooking meals to give to homeless shelters in the area and just want to give back to people after a very hard year,” she added.

“And it was great to also do that through Taste North East Wales; we loved being part of it, the films and virtual events that gave people a chance to have fun and celebrate local produce.”

Taste North East Wales is organised by Clwydian Range Food and Drink and Llangollen and Dee Valley Food and Drink, with the support of Cadwyn Clwyd, the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB and the local authorities of Flintshire, Wrexham and Denbighshire.

This project receives funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

For more on Taste North East Wales, follow them on social media @taste_blasu or email taste.blas@gmail.com.  Alternatively, visit the website: www.tastenortheastwales.org.

Visit www.sabordeamor.com for the latest news and recipes from Sabor de Amor.

News

Inspace Media wins UK Fleet Champions Award thanks to illuminated signage technology

Inspace Media has scooped a prestigious industry accolade for the development of its illuminated chevron and safety signage technology. The company was successful in the fleet safety product category at the UK Fleet Champions Awards 2020, which celebrates the success and commitment of those working to prevent crashes and reduce pollution caused by vehicles used for work purposes.

The judges were impressed by Inspace Media’s illuminated chevrons and safety signage that help to create a safer working environment for logistics and delivery professionals operating at the roadside. The product can be fitted to any HGV, van or specialist vehicle and seen a mile away, giving other road users significantly more time to safely reduce speed and pay added care and attention.

The Illuminated technology is proven to be vastly superior to traditional Chapter 8 chevrons and reflective signs, helping road transport operators to perform safely, responsibly and with high levels of duty of care. It provides dramatically increased visibility and maintains the highest levels of performance in lowlight and poor weather conditions.

“There are a growing number of incidents involving parked vehicles on motorways, main roads and in urban areas, so there are considerable dangers to people operating at the roadside, next to a live lane or at high-risk locations,” explains Alex Knowden, Director of Sales and Business Development at Inspace Media. “This UK Fleet Champions Award acknowledges the dedication and hard work that has taken place to bring our industry-first vehicle safety proposition to market, which has been developed to reduce roadside collisions and ultimately prevent injuries and fatalities.”

The winners and highly commended entrants were announced at a virtual awards ceremony during Road Safety Week, the UK’s biggest road safety event, coordinated annually by Brake.

News, Pensions

Disappointment as pensions dashboard further delayed until 2023

THE PENSIONS Dashboards Programme (PDP) has announced that the long-awaited pensions dashboard will be further delayed until 2023 – four years after its original target of 2019 – causing mixed reactions within the industry.

The dashboard will allow individuals to access and manage all their private pension arrangements along with their State Pension in one place, enabling them to see their projected retirement income at their current saving levels, and a predicted amount if their contributions were increased.

The initial phase of the project, including finalising the architecture of the actual dashboard, securing a supplier to complete this and agreeing a set of data standards, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Once data standards are confirmed, pension schemes and providers will need to ensure all data adheres to these specifications and is ready for inclusion in the dashboard by 2023.

Stuart Price, Partner and Actuary at Quantum Advisory, said: “To hear of yet another delay in this pivotal project for the pensions industry is disappointing, particularly such a lengthy delay, however, if this is what is needed to ensure we achieve the desired outcome then it is necessary.

“So many people are unsure about how much they should be saving and at what age they could realistically retire. They see contributions come out of their wages each month but have no idea of the income they will be receiving in retirement. The fact that workers in the UK have six jobs on average over their lifetime, each with a separate pension scheme, exacerbates this confusion. The dashboard will provide a platform to answers all these concerns and reassure people that their pension contributions are being looked after and, in fact, growing. It will also hopefully make people actively think more about their pensions and encourage them to save more.

“The continuous setbacks and delays are discouraging, but it is imperative that the pensions dashboard does come to fruition, or we risk an entire generation oblivious to pensions and in for a nasty surprise when they retire or they realise that they cannot afford to retire when they want to.”

Quantum Advisory specialises in pension and employee benefits services to employers, scheme trustees and members. For more information about your pensions, visit www.quantumadvisory.co.uk.

COVID-19, News

Lockdown 2.0: UK Workers Want Positive Action to Avoid Fatigue from First Lockdown

5th November 2020 saw the start of the second lockdown in England, and the government insisted workers work from home, where possible. The shift in mindset has been felt and the latest research from Totaljobs reveals that while employees are better prepared to avoid lockdown fatigue this winter they’re still looking for support from their employers.

The research shows a generally positive approach will be taken to lockdown 2.0. Workers are applying learnings from their experiences since March 2020, to support their own and others’ welfare throughout.

There is evidence, however, that our enthusiasm for some of the activities which came to be a hallmark of the first lockdown is on the wane. Only 5% of workers would like to take part in virtual pub quizzes this time around.

Whilst 29% of the workforce don’t see their working situation impacted by lockdown this month, but for those who are affected, over 76% will take stock from the previous lockdown and adapt their daily routine this winter.

Shut-in, not shut down

Despite 58% of those having to adapt to the second lockdown believing that it will not affect them, 1 in 3 (33%) are concerned about loneliness and isolation, with more than 1 in 3 worried about the overall effect of lockdown will have on their stress levels (36%).

This is unlikely to be helped by the additional negative side-effects lockdown is expected to have on people’s sleeping habits (28%), eating habits (26%), and physical health (27%).

Concern for our physical wellbeing is one reason exercise routines have become more important for UK workers, with 1 in 4 (27%) committing to maintain or increase their exercise levels during the second lockdown.

However, as the weather shifts into winter and concerns about the virus continue, only 35% say they’re going to make an effort to leave the house on a daily basis. This doesn’t mean we’ll remain inactive, however, with 1 in 5 (19%) wanting to pursue a hobby or attempt to learn a new skill this time around.

A helping hand

With only 6% of workers openly talking about their wellbeing and mental health with colleagues and managers during lockdowns, it’s not surprising to see 15% of employees wanting more support and workshops to be provided by either their HR departments or external helplines.

As with the first lockdown, the onus is on employers to reach out to their workforce during this time to ensure that these important conversations are taking place as we progress through the winter months.

Worryingly though, there are signs that despite our new working environments, employees are beginning to fall back into some of the traditional bad habits of the workplace. More people are choosing to take fewer breaks during working hours during this lockdown, with only 14% planning to take time off for a lunch break or time away from the computer.

It’s no stretch of the imagination to see that 64% of workers still want additional support from their bosses as they experience the effects of a second lockdown. In fact, 53% believe that their bosses will be more conscious of their team’s mental health, and 42% believe that more resources will be put in place this time.

1 in 10 (10%) employees would even like to be offered more days off to look after themselves with a further 1 in 10 (10%) open to the option of receiving a lockdown care package or food vouchers from their employer.

Jon Wilson, CEO of Totaljobs says:

‘‘For many nowadays, the office has been replaced by a kitchen table or a precariously balanced laptop on the sofa – and that will last a little longer for workers who aren’t able to return to their workplaces.

“We are living in anxious times and our work lives have taken a very different shape from what it was just at the start of the year.

“It is alarming to see in today’s results that during this second lockdown, workers in the UK are feeling less inclined than before to take breaks away from their computers, enjoy a lunch break or even leave the house. Taking time to move away from your workstation has many proven benefits and can allow workers to carry on with their day refreshed and reinvigorated and keep a physical activity if coupled with a walk outside for example.

“Keeping this routine is also necessary for workers’ well-being and mental health. Regrettably, loneliness continues to blight the wellbeing of many workers this year, especially during lockdown conditions.”

As we all work our way through this winter period, employers should continue to take practical steps to maintain the wellness of our teams and ensure that individuals don’t end up isolated or disconnected. WFH may have been something we got accustomed to this year but isn’t always a fully positive experience for all workers.

Keep an eye on your team, consider training and workshops on how to deal with anxiety, encourage them to take breaks and speak with each other, and assess if there’s anything you can do as an employer, to improve their physical and mental wellbeing in their working conditions, be it for the remainder of this current lockdown, or longer as the situation develops.’’

To see the full research visit https://www.totaljobs.com/media-centre/uk-workers-want-positive-action-to-avoid-fatigue-from-first-lockdown