Home / Business and Economy / Thousands Demand Barclays Reverses Office Return Plan
Thousands Demand Barclays Reverses Office Return Plan
17 Sep
Summary
- Barclays plans to increase office days for most staff to three.
- Unite union represents 36,000 staff and seeks exemptions.
- Employees cite strong results under current remote work policy.
Barclays employees are voicing strong opposition to the bank's new policy requiring more days in the office. Starting next month, most staff will need to be present for at least three days a week, a shift from the previous two-day minimum. Senior leaders will face a stricter requirement of four days weekly in office locations.
The union Unite, which advocates for 36,000 Barclays employees, is actively campaigning for the bank to abandon this policy. Unite is also advocating for specific exemptions for affected staff and a one-time payment to help offset increased commuting and childcare expenses.
Barclays asserts that many employees already spend three or more days in the office, dependent on business needs. The bank stated it recognizes the value of balancing workplace flexibility with the benefits of in-person collaboration, with specific requirements varying by business area. Nevertheless, the Financial Times reported a growing staff backlash against these proposed changes.
