How to introduce homeworking

Checklist

1. 1 Plan a pilot scheme; consider offering selected employees the option of homeworking, or introducing part-time homeworking.
2. 2 Identify jobs which are suitable for full or partial homeworking: consider how much the employee needs to be in the company's premises.
3. 3 Confirm that the work can be carried out, without creating a nuisance for neighbours or requiring planning permission.
4. 4 Consider whether individuals have the right attitude and skills, for example, time-management, self-motivation and communication skills.
5. 5 Organise any training required; plan how you will involve the homeworker in future training and development activities.
6. 6 Identify the requirements for a home office such as a reasonable working environment, a laptop or tablet computer, a smartphone — for occasions when the employee is out and about — and office furniture.
7. 7 Plan the employee’s communications: how will email and the internet be used? Who will arrange and pay for a broadband connection? How will phone calls and emails be re-routed? Will you use instant messaging services and collaboration tools to facilitate communication and team working between you and the employee?
8. 8 Arrange access to the software, files and data that the employee needs to work effectively. Will the employee have access to your server via a virtual private network? Or, will the employee use cloud-based software and services?
9. 9 Consider any security issues: for example, protecting valuable equipment, data and confidential information.
10. 10 Arrange any additional insurance required.
11. 11 Carry out a risk assessment: identify the potential risks and who could be affected, take steps to minimise or remove the risks and record your findings.
12. 12 Provide guidance on health and safety: for example, seating and furniture layout, lighting and testing of electrical equipment.
13. 13 Advise homeworkers to ensure that the home office retains some residential use (eg as a spare bedroom) to avoid business rates and tax problems.
14. 14 Agree any modifications to employment contracts: for example, covering working hours, responsibilities for equipment, and additional expenses.
15. 15 Agree clear performance targets and standards which you can use as the basis for managing the homeworker.
16. 16 Keep in touch on a daily basis, and arrange regular face-to-face meetings; include the homeworker in company social events.

Cardinal rules