Back to Search Start Over

UK Government COVID-19 Response Employees' Perceptions of Working From Home: Content Analysis of Open-Ended Survey Questions.

Authors :
Hall, Charlotte E.
Brooks, Samantha K.
Greenberg, Neil
Weston, Dale
Source :
Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine. Dec2024, Vol. 66 Issue 12, pe661-e667. 7p.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Our mixed findings suggest that a 'one-size fits all' approach to support staff to work from home is not fit for purpose. Ensuring flexibility and consideration for individual differences and contextual factors is key for organizations, employers, and managers of those responding to enhanced incidents from home. Objective: This study investigates perceptions of homeworking in UK Government response-focused employees that contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic response. Method: A cross-sectional online survey with open-ended questions was conducted. Free-text responses detailing participants' perceptions of barriers, facilitators, advantages, and disadvantages were analyzed using content analysis. Results: A total of 1943 free-text responses (from 150 participants) were analyzed. There were many conflicting advantages and disadvantages provided by participants, but crudely more positive statements were provided than negative. Flexibility associated with working from home was the most common positive factor, and the isolation and impact on working relationships was the most reported negative factor of working from home. Conclusions: We suggest a 'one size fits all' approach to supporting staff working from home is not fit for purpose due to individual circumstances and contextual factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
10762752
Volume :
66
Issue :
12
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
181260847
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000003234