Return to offices as Scotland moves towards hybrid working

People across Scotland are making a return to offices as the country moves towards a ‘hybrid’ system of working from Monday.

Employers have been asked to encourage staff to return to the workplace, whilst enabling them to also spend some time at home.

It marks the latest step back towards a level of normality following almost two years in which many have not stepped foot in an office since the pandemic began.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon indicated last week that there is not an expectation for a “wholesale return” this week.

However, she outlined the benefits to both employers and staff, as well as to the economy, of a return to the office.

Last week, rules on social distancing and the wearing of face coverings were eased across Scotland.

The changes mean that adults are no longer required to wear a face mask when taking part in organised activities in organised activities that involve directly interacting with children under the age of five.

The two-metre physical distancing rule for people exempt from wearing a face mask – such as receptionists and people leading religious services – has also been reduced to one metre.