The riots witnessed across the UK this past week have been unsettling for many, with events across the nation causing violence, disruption and concerns about safety. If your company has recently welcomed contractors or freelancers back to the office, their safety and well-being should be a priority.
With that in mind, The Freelance Informer wanted to share why offering the option to work from home during these uncertain times could be a thoughtful and mutually beneficial move.
Putting people first
Above all, offering remote work is about putting the safety and peace of mind of your valued team members. By allowing them to work from the comfort of their own homes, you’re removing the stress and potential risks associated with commuting and navigating unpredictable situations. It’s a simple gesture that shows you care.
Keeping things moving
Riots often lead to disruptions in transportation, infrastructure, and essential services. Allowing contractors and freelancers to work remotely can help minimise the impact of these disruptions on their work and ensure that productivity remains high. This flexibility can also reduce stress and anxiety, enabling individuals to focus on tasks and contribute effectively.
Attracting and Retaining Talent
In an increasingly competitive job market, offering flexible work arrangements has become a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent. By demonstrating a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and focus on worker needs, companies can enhance their reputation as an employer of choice and attract a wider pool of skilled professionals.
Building a Resilient Workforce
The events of the past week, have highlighted the importance of building a resilient workforce that can adapt to unexpected challenges. By embracing remote work options, companies can empower their employees to maintain continuity in their work even during times of crisis, ensuring the long-term success of the organisation or project.
Sectors impacted by riots
While the benefits of remote work are universal, certain sectors might feel the impact of recent events more acutely. These include:
Creative Industries: Design, writing, and other creative fields often thrive in collaborative environments, but safety comes first.
Tech and IT: Many tech roles are already well-suited to remote work, making this an easy transition.
Consulting: Consultants often travel for client meetings, but remote work can offer a safe and effective alternative.
Hotel and Transport: Given hotels that house refugees are being targeted there may be distress among hotel staff and suppliers serving targeted hotels. Managers of hotels and those supplying them should work with the police to ensure the safety of workers and look into doubling supplies to lessen the number of trips to certain locations or areas. Managers and temp agencies should also look into offering alternative shifts during the evenings or days when rioters may be less active.
Those working in transport must also be vigilant about their safety and those of their passengers. Taxi drivers may be worried that passengers could be violent or cause damage to their vehicles.
The way forward
We understand that every company is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But we hope this perspective encourages you to explore the possibilities of remote work as a way to support your team, maintain productivity, and build a stronger, more resilient workplace.
