Kelly Evans and Francesca Heath-Clarke write for People Management on the right to disconnect
min readIn recent years there has been a significant increase in the use of digital communication and collaboration tools within workplaces in the UK. These developments were accelerated during the Covid pandemic, with the use of digital communication and home working resulting in a blurring of the boundaries between home and work life. Continuous remote access and the use of emails, texts and instant messages mean that employees are, in practice, constantly contactable.
This ‘always on’ working culture can be problematic. The expectation that workers will be available at almost any time for online or mobile communication is now considered potentially hazardous to the health of workers.
Countries including Belgium, France, Italy and Spain have sought to address such issues through the introduction of legislation that includes the right to disconnect.
Kelly Evans, Senior Associate, and Francesca Heath-Clarke, Trainee Solicitor, write an article for People Management considering whether UK employees should be given the right to disconnect.
Read the full article in People Management here.
