How to reduce employee anxiety when reopening your workplace

A recent survey by the CIPD found that 44 per cent reported feeling anxious about the prospect of going back to work because of the health risks posed by Covid-19 to them and those close to them.

The survey also revealed that 31 per cent of workers were anxious about commuting to work. This figure jumped to 52 per cent in London, where commutes are often longer.

The return to work needs to be handled carefully as employees with health conditions and employees who cohabit with people with health conditions may have legitimate reasons not to return to work. Here are some ways to alleviate anxiety: 

• Make your workplace as safe as possible and show your employees that you’ve complied with health & safety measures before reopening.

• Before reopening, communicate with your employees to ensure you address concerns and to enable you to understand individual concerns.

• Listen to concerns sensitively. It continues to be an uncertain time for many employees.

• Ensure that employees understand their own individual responsibility to maintain a safe working environment for themselves and their colleagues.

• The past year could have affected the mental health of some employees. Consider providing support through an Employee Assistance Programme and other initiatives that encourage community and teamwork.

• Communicate the reasons why you’re returning employees to the workplace

• Consider a flexible approach where possible by offering a graduated or part-time return.