Barclays staff push back at plans to reduce work-from-home days

Thousands of Barclays employees are pushing back against the bank’s plan to increase required office attendance, demanding concessions such as a one‑off payment and various exemptions. Staff who have been expected to work from the office two days a week would need to be present for at least three days a week starting next month, according to Barclays. Unite, the union that represents roughly 36,000 Barclays workers, is urging the bank to reverse the decision and is also seeking exemptions to offset higher travel and childcare costs. Barclays noted that many employees already spend three or more days per week in the office, depending on business needs. In July the bank issued a memo outlining its expectations, stating that senior leaders must work at least four days per week on site. As first reported by the Financial Times, the proposal has sparked a growing backlash. Rick Coyle, Unite’s national officer, said thousands of workers have signed an open letter calling for Barclays to abandon the change, adding that the number of signatories “continues to rise.” He argued that Barclays is “trying to fix a problem that doesn’t exist” by making its remote‑work policy less flexible. The open letter asserts that employees are delivering “strong financial results and improved customer services” under the current hybrid arrangement. It lists a series of demands compiled from thousands of staff suggestions: - an exemption for commutes longer than 40 minutes or 35 miles - exemptions during Christmas, summer and school holidays - a maximum of one day in the office for carers - flexibility for wrap‑around childcare, plus exploration of childcare vouchers and on‑site creches - a one‑off payment to offset related costs Barclays responded in a statement that it recognises “the benefits of balancing flexibility for colleagues with the value of working together in our physical locations.” A spokesperson added, “Our minimum time in office requirements vary by business area, reflecting the nature of the work and the needs of the business.” The bank declined to specify how many staff would be affected by the new rule. However, the BBC understands that requirements differ across teams, with, for example, investment bankers expected in the office five days per week. The shift comes after the coronavirus pandemic prompted many firms to allow remote work. Since then, numerous organisations have recalled employees to the office despite research suggesting hybrid models may be optimal. Amazon, Boots and JP Morgan are among those that have instituted policies requiring head‑office staff to be on site every day following the pandemic.