How to achieve work-life balance in local government

How to achieve work-life balance in local government



Feet on weighing scales



             When Brent council employed a hologram receptionist last year, they received much media attention, not least because it could be something plucked straight out of Blade Runner.
In reality, it's a microcosm of the complex link between innovation and job security in local authorities at present, as part of a nationwide efficiency push which has been rightly praised. But, what does 'doing more with less' mean for council staff?
With the legacy of recent cuts still fresh, it's difficult for staff to make decisions about their working practices. Who, for example, is going to grab the opportunity of remote working with both hands if they feel they need to be seen putting the hours in?
Lower headcount, higher workloads, and our psychological response to the whole scenario can make work-life balance a secondary consideration.
It's a conundrum that needs to be solved, not least because the level of flexibility and balance in our lives has such a big effect on our psychological wellbeing and, ultimately, organisational performance. Presenteeism, where employees are disengaged at work – perhaps with their mind on other commitments – already costs the UK an estimated £15bn a year. Here's some advice for how to achieve a work-life balance:
Approach the issue with the right mindset
It isn't simply a nice perk to negotiate. Getting a work-life balance can be a central part of local council innovation and performance.
Flexible working encourages a culture that values performance over time spent at work, but that needs proactive discussion between managers and staff to establish.
Regularly updating on work-life balance at one-to-ones and team meetings, and raising the issue at appraisals, can keep that dialogue open and encourage more flexibility. What's key is that the personal benefits of flexibility aren't the only focus – it can free up resource as well as make departments more efficient. So, in short, don't be scared to broach the issue!
Take advantage of the modern technology
There are plenty of precedents across the public sector where technology has freed up time and enabled flexibility. The police have successfully utilised video links for court appearances, and that in a system which values due process more than any. So, clearly, there is room to change the status quo.
It doesn't have to mean expensive bespoke systems either. Utilising the same technology that we use in our personal lives, like Skype or even Twitter, can create that communication link which means staff don't have to be chained to their desk.








 

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