Met Police office attendance: ‘Like a tax on dedicated staff’

Following the Metropolitan Police’s announcement of a new hybrid working policy, PCS is now in formal dispute with the employer and is balloting the members for strike action.

Coming into force in January 2025, the new policy will increase the number of days in the office for civilian staff who support the day-to-day work of police officers. The new policy (which varies between workplaces) demands between 60% and 100% attendance. This replaces the well-established blended working framework which brought real benefits to staff wellbeing and productivity

We held a survey of members to see how the changes will affect them.

Productivity, retention and travel costs

Asked about the impact on productivity and employee travel costs, members told us:

“This is the worst decision I think I have ever seen – something that is going to significantly affect the wellbeing, welfare and finances of a large number of officers and staff…and for what? If I thought for one minute that this policy would help us provide a better service to the people of London, I would be onboard.”

Another said: “As a single parent, every penny counts! Due to additional childcare costs and travel costs, theoretically, it would cost me an additional £312 a month. I say theoretically, as I would not go through with it and simply leave. The super annoying thing? I never even insisted on working from home. It was offered to me in order to persuade me to stay! The Met are going to lose so many experienced staff if they push through with this.”

Finally, one adds: “It currently costs me £51.70 per day to complete my 2 hours commute to the workplace, where I never know if I will even have a desk, let alone if I will be sat with my team. We do not need to be sat together in the office to be successful. The cost of extra journeys to the office is like a tax on dedicated staff that is being imposed by people who get chauffeur-driven everywhere.”

No ballot paper?

If your ballot paper hasn’t arrived or it’s been lost you can request a replacement.

All members that require a replacement ballot paper must request one online by logging into your PCS Digital account PCS Digital where you can check and update your details if necessary.

The deadline for requesting a replacement is noon on 27 November.

Not yet a member? Join PCS now