The Welsh government has issued a stern warning to its employees regarding the continued usage of office spaces. In a recent announcement, First Minister Eluned Morgan emphasized that the government would not maintain offices that employees fail to utilize. The urgency of this message stems from the significantly low attendance rates reported within various government offices, prompting a strategic review of office requirements.
In March, daily office attendance averaged a disappointing 16% across the Welsh government, plummeting to just 9% at the main hub in Merthyr Tydfil. The Welsh government employs approximately 5,700 individuals across 20 different sites, highlighting the disparity between office capacity and actual usage. The First Minister has called for staff to return to the office for a minimum of two days each week, thus aiming for a target of 40% office attendance. Nonetheless, there remains a stark contrast between this goal and the current utilization rates.
Trade unions have largely voiced their support for existing work-from-home arrangements. They argue that the blended working model has been beneficial for both employees and productivity. However, opposition parties, particularly the Welsh Conservatives, have criticized the current state of affairs. They advocate for a cessation of unnecessary remote working, claiming that such policies undermine productivity and efficiency within the governmental framework.
The Welsh government’s office landscape includes 15 “core offices,” including significant hubs located in Cathays Park in Cardiff, Rhyd-y-Car in Merthyr Tydfil, Rhodfa Padarn in Aberystwyth, and Sarn Mynach in Llandudno Junction, Conwy County. The total running costs of these offices are estimated at £24.5 million. In light of the changed nature of work practices, a review focusing particularly on office requirements in Powys is underway. Morgan acknowledged that the changing work environment necessitates this assessment, stating, “If you don’t turn up, we cannot justify keeping this particular office open.”
Concerns have been raised regarding the future of government offices in regions like Newtown, Powys. Independent MS Russell George highlighted that the Newtown office had the highest average daily attendance figure at 22% in March, with 17 employees present. He articulated the importance of maintaining government offices across Wales, asserting that these offices support not only the government’s operations but also local businesses in these communities.
Morgan defended the review process, emphasizing the importance of encouraging employees to return to their offices. She further mentioned that the review for Powys offices, specifically in Llandrindod Wells and Newtown, is expected to conclude by the end of September. The prospect of office closures looms, especially given the inadequate attendance figures which must inform operational decisions.
The attendance records from March revealed that other offices experienced similarly low attendance rates: Cathays Park in Cardiff saw 19% of staff present, while Aberystwyth and Llandrindod Wells recorded 15% and 12%, respectively. Over the previous months, an overall average attendance rate of 15% was noted.
An earlier report by the Welsh government noted that pandemic-era work-from-home practices have persisted into the current year, with a notable portion of staff continuing to work remotely. Addressing the costs of maintaining under-utilized office spaces, the State of the Estate report acknowledged ongoing efforts to repurpose spaces for public sector tenants. Staff arrangements are evolving to incorporate more hybrid working models, with the potential for further efficiency even as a significant number of employees adapt to flexible working conditions.
Union representatives, including Fran Heathcote from the Public and Commercial Services Union, emphasized that existing arrangements were collaboratively negotiated and have shown to be effective. She asserted that any changes would need to involve dialogue with trade unions. Similar sentiments were echoed by FDA national officer Jane Runeckles, who commended the Welsh government for leading in the shift toward more flexible work settings.
Conversely, denunciations from the Welsh Conservatives reflect a contrasting viewpoint, blaming the current state on perceived mismanagement of taxpayer money. Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, proclaimed a commitment to restoring full office occupancy should his party assume governance in the upcoming election.
In summary, the ongoing debate around office utilization within the Welsh government encapsulates broader conversations about work flexibility and productivity in a post-pandemic landscape. As the government navigates these complexities, the dialogue between unions and management will be crucial in determining future work arrangements, office requirements, and, ultimately, the efficacy of government operations across Wales.
