Conducting the meeting

The discussion about remote working arrangements are likely to take place as part of the normal one-to-one process with a follow up email to confirm the agreed arrangements. Where a more detailed and focused discussion may be needed, this can be done separately to the usual one-to-one to avoid the available time being taken by other agenda items.

The purpose of the discussion is to:

• enable the line manager and staff member to positively engage in discussion about the request
• fully explore working arrangements whilst balancing the needs and preferences of both the University and the staff member
• reach an agreement that is workable for both parties

The discussion should be approached with an open mind and a genuine desire to work together, to determine suitable working arrangements that take into account the need to collaborate within the department and across teams; the wider university community; role requirements and deliverables as well as individual preferences and personal circumstances.

Managers may wish to provide an overview of the parameters of the Remote Working policy at the start of the discussion and use the template form as a basis for discussion. Staff should be given the opportunity to explain their request and describe how their preferences take into account the business needs.

Details of the agreed working arrangements can be captured on the remote working agreement form. This should be shared with the staff member and a copy retained by the manager. If not using the form, an email should be sent from the manager to the staff member, to confirm the agreed arrangements. Departments may wish to retain a central list of the arrangements to help with continuity of information as well as to inform future space planning on campus.