First speaker, Juliette Alban-Metcalf, CPsychol. Chief Executive, Real World Group explained that despite some CEOs and organisations backtracking on hybrid working, an increasing number organisations believe it is important to provide flexible working as an option when advertising jobs and job searches for hybrid increasing.

Juliette presented findings of hybrid working and wellbeing research carried out by Liverpool John Moores University. The research demonstrates - 

• Hybrid work is good for enhancing physical health, work/life balance, reduced stress and anxiety
• However, it can also be detrimental because of isolation, sedentary time and challenges with boundaries and switching off – ‘extensification’
• Overall, wellbeing benefits are greater than the challenges
• More than 25% of respondents reported zero challenges

She outlined five ways leaders can ensure healthy, connected & effective hybrid teams. Key take aways include -

• Manage by outputs rather than visibility of work
• Ensure fairness in all directions
• Enhance connections & potential - actively empower your team
• Engage people & reduce stress by helping ensure work is efficient
• Enhance wellbeing and collaboration by treating employees as human beings

Stephen Walker Whitehead, Director of People, EEDI and OD at London Borough Hounslow Council described the culture change process undertaken by Hounslow to develop a new set of values to support staff to meet the needs of the borough's residents while working in a hybrid way. 

Key take aways include - 

• Not mandating the number of days staff need to attend the office
• Make meetings matter- help staff to 'come in with purpose'
• Regular, timely feedback is important
• Traditional grievance, performance management & sickness policies were outdated, they were replaced with a Resolution Framework.

Watch the event in full: