Q&A People Matter

As we approach the festive season, we want to take a moment to thank our friends, colleagues and clients for your continued trust and support this year and wish you all a healthy and happy 2025.

Interesting how the priorities differ between age groups: https://lnkd.in/e2CBYqiH

TechRound publishes this article looking at how we can build inclusive workplaces: "HR teams should establish formal policies that protect and support neurodivergent employees." https://lnkd.in/eWtT_BZi #neurodiversity

Last month we shared an HR News article based on research that people are happy to spend some days a week in the office. We also shared the many benefits that this brings from an individual perspective. This Personnel Today article by Kavitha Sivasubramaniam looks at it from an employer perspective. It includes findings by WTW that 60% of companies across a range of industries have introduced a formal policy requiring workplace attendance for a minimum number of days per week. By doing so, it is believed that this will increase engagement and strengthen corporate culture. Clearly there needs to be a balance between flexibility and structure to ensure that employees feel their needs are catered for as well as business objectives met. https://lnkd.in/e6-Aj5Er

Supporting employees experiencing menopause is not just a matter of well-being; it’s a business imperative. Menopause can impact: ➤ Productivity ➤ Attendance ➤ Mental health This article by Stacie Cheadle - People Management magazine looks at the legal aspects as well as what employers should be doing to help those employees going through the menopause. https://lnkd.in/e6huUfRq #HR

The closure of Billingsgate and Smithfield markets in London could present several HR-related issues, primarily related to employee displacement and job security. Workers, many of whom might have long-standing roles in these markets, could face uncertainty regarding their futures. Chris Hayward, policy chairman of the City of London Corporation - owner and operator of both markets: “We’re committed to making sure they have the financial support and guidance they need to transition seamlessly and successfully to new locations.” Whilst financial support is being offered, specific HR-related support measures for individual traders have not yet been extensively detailed. https://lnkd.in/eDN6GcXa #HRsupport

International Men's Day highlights the positive contributions of men to society while focusing on their well-being. It serves as a platform to address important topics such as mental health, break down stereotypes, and advocate for gender equality. Many men find that it is a challenge to express they are struggling in the workplace. Fearing they will be judged or there will be repercussions prevents them from disclosure. This article by Michelle Robinson-Hayes on HR News details six steps to reduce the stigma. https://lnkd.in/eJ5FHgzR #InternationalMensDay

Mental and physical health are affected by the amount of exercise we do. With absenteeism an issue in the workplace, this article highlights companies who are actively encouraging their people to do more.

Now this is good news as reported by Neil Franklin, Insight's news editor According to research by IWG, hybrid working has led to an increase in active commuting – where workers combine their commute with physical exercise. It's resulted in improved wellness, productivity, and job satisfaction. Older workers are setting the bar - those between 55 and 64 have reported a 109% increase in active commuting when travelling to a local workspace instead of a central office. https://lnkd.in/eXmxj9Aq #hybridworking

This article on HR News reports on new research that UK office workers are happy to work at least some days in the office. Of the 2,000 people surveyed, 80.77% said they were happy to do so. The article goes on to detail 10 reasons cited for being in the office. https://lnkd.in/dsxZW_jP