HMRC has recently confirmed a significant change in office attendance for its employees. Starting from 2nd April 2024, all grades within the organisation will be required to attend the office at least 60% of their working time. This move comes as part of the government's efforts to transition back to a more traditional office-based work environment.
You would have thought that they should already be in the office on a daily basis!
The 'Office Attendance Tool'
To facilitate this transition, HMRC is introducing the Office Attendance Tool. Here are some key points about how it works:
1. Automatic Data Gathering: The tool automatically collects data from various sources to determine where an employee is working. If an employee docks their computer at an office desk, it registers as a day of office attendance. Connecting via Government Wi-Fi does not create a report, but swiping into an office with a swipe card system also counts as attending the office.
2. Manager Access: Managers do not have access to specific timings for swiping in or docking computers. The system simply registers office days without providing detailed information on arrival or departure times.
Outstanding Concerns
Despite the implementation date being set for 2nd April, there are several outstanding concerns raised by employees and the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS):
1. Office Capacity: Employees are worried about office capacity and whether there will be enough space to accommodate the increased attendance.
2. Travel Costs: Some employees may face additional travel costs due to increased office attendance.
3. Training: Concerns exist regarding the level of training provided to staff and managers on how the tool functions.
4. Functionality: The functionality of the Attendance Tool itself has been questioned, especially after access issues were reported during the initial rollout.
As I said, it rather beggars belief that staff are not already in the office 60% of the time!
Tax does have to be taxing.
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