Labour’s right to switch off will boost worker wellbeing and productivity, according to the interim CEO of not-for-profit health and wellbeing provider BHSF.
The right to switch off is the concept that employees should be able to disengage from work communications and tasks when outside working hours, even if working from home.
In this plan Labour says it: “will bring in the ‘right to switch off’, so working from home does not result in homes turning into 24/7 offices.
“We will follow similar models to those that are already in place in Ireland and Belgium, giving workers and employers the opportunity to have constructive conversations and work together on bespoke workplace policies or contractual terms that benefit both parties”.
Commenting on Labour’s commitment, Stuart Hayhurst, interim CEO at BHSF, described it a “welcome” step in the right direction to address the persistent pressure of after-hours communication.
“Allowing employees to fully disengage from work-related activities during their off hours allows them to destress and recharge, enhancing their wellbeing and productivity,” Hayhurst added.
“Such measures support healthier work cultures, reduce burnout, and promote mental health.
“At BHSF, our commitment to work-life balance is exemplified by our BHSF Balance programme, which allows employees to disconnect away from work, provided they avoid meeting times, and ensures messages and emails are avoided after certain times of the day.
“This demonstrates the importance we place on recognising the need for employees to disconnect and recharge.
“By supporting initiatives like the “right to disconnect” and fostering a culture that prioritises wellbeing through programmes like BHSF Balance, we can create a future where a thriving workforce and a healthy work environment go hand in hand.”