In a surprising shift, Nationwide has informed its 13,000 staff members, initially promised flexible working, that they will be required to return to the office for at least two days a week from early next year. This announcement comes as a significant change to the building society's "work anywhere" policy introduced during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, Nationwide took a pioneering stance with its "work anywhere" policy, assuring staff members outside its branches that they would not be compelled to return to the office. This move was aimed at putting employees in control of their work environment, emphasizing social contact, collaboration and creativity as reasons to maintain office spaces.
However, with the appointment of Debbie Crosbie as Nationwide's first female chief executive at the end of 2021, a shift in the organisation's approach to remote work has emerged. The new policy - agreed upon with the Nationwide Group Staff Union - mandates most staff to work in the office for at least 40% of their contract, equivalent to two days a week for full-time employees.
Although the policy is set to take effect from 1st January 2024, a transition period has been established until 1st April 2024, allowing staff who have undergone major lifestyle changes - such as moving homes - to adjust. Employees are also given the option to apply for exceptions to the policy.
The abrupt change in policy has sparked dissatisfaction among employees, with some expressing strong opposition. One employee interviewed by the BBC noted that those who are angered are extremely so. The discrepancy between the initial promise of not forcing employees back to the office and the current requirement has created tension within the workforce.
Nationwide has stated that the society will be monitoring data on office access to understand site utilisation and identify non-compliance with the new requirement. However, they have assured staff that this data will only be used for discussions and not as an absolute measure of compliance.
Debbie Crosbie acknowledged the discontent among employees but emphasized that Nationwide would continue to support various flexible working options, including part-time hours and job sharing. The assurance of flexibility seeks to balance the organisation's needs for office collaboration with the employees' desire for a work environment that accommodates their individual circumstances.
