With a revamped flex work policy passed by councillors on April 25, Town of Saugeen Shores employees can now request to work from home — part-time or full-time.
According to Human Resources manager Janice Stubbs, the amended policy promotes employee work-life balance and acknowledges the value of flexible work arrangements in attaining high levels of employee engagement.
She said that the new policy is in reaction to a shift in the workplace that is resulting in more employees choosing to work from home, at least part of the time.
“A lot of the research points to the effectiveness of at least the hybrid work where you’ve got a combination of work in the office as well as at home, permitted a number of criteria are met.”Janice Stubbs, HR Manager
The pandemic, according to Stubbs, was an excellent test for the policy, which requires non-union staff applying for flexible and remote work arrangements to fulfil eligibility conditions such as health and safety concerns, productivity goals, and the suitability of the home environment.
All costs related with flex or remote work arrangements, according to Stubbs, are paid by the employee.
The COVID pandemic, according to Coun. Jami Smith, demonstrated that individuals can work successfully and well at home, and that the updated policy will assist the Town maintain existing skilled workers while also attracting new ones.
The updated policy, according to Mayor Luke Charbonneau, gives the Town a significant potential to be more efficient and productive, as well as tap into resources outside of Saugeen Shores.
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