Trial periods

Trial periods are common for homeworking (see also pages 15 and 18). For example, at Westminster Council it is three months, while other organisations have annual reviews. At the end of the trial period the worker should be able to revise the agreement or return to the office if they felt it was unsuccessful.

If the homeworking arrangement is to be terminated, then notice should be given together with a clear indication of what happens next. At Pembrokeshire County Council, the policy states that homeworking should initially be piloted on a trial basis for a specified period of time (for example, three months). The terms of such a pilot will be set out in writing and signed by the employee and their head of service. These terms will include the right to terminate the facility on either side with appropriate notice (for example, a minimum of one month).