Guidelines and policies
SHW flexible working model
The School of Health and Wellbeing have recently updated the flexible working arrangements which have operated very effectively in Public Health and HEHTA for a number of years.
Changes to this scheme following COVID-19
There have been significant changes post COVID to the working practices of SHW staff and our overall culture.
- increased flexibility for all staff, irrespective of job family, role or grade;
- adoption of the principle of "finish your work not your hours", emphasising results over rigid scheduling. See SHW guidance on good practice for remote working and UofG best practice for working from home;
- renewed commitment to helping staff achieve good work/life balance, including an acknowledgement of non-work responsibilities, priorities and challenges, and the importance of making time to look after our physical and emotional wellbeing.
In the light of these changes, at least some of which may become permanent, we will continue to review and revise these flexible working arrangements to ensure that they remain useful and workable.
Current working arrangements
Our working arrangements are based on good practice recognising some levels of flexibility which benefits both staff and teams. Staff benefits include improved work-life balance, reduced stress, and greater flexibility for caring responsibilities. Team benefits include increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and improved staff retention.
It is fundamental that this should not interfere with, or reduce the efficiency of, normal activities or levels of service. Line manager approval must be obtained for any change in working hours. This scheme is offered in conjunction with the Flexible Working Policy which is available across the university.
Staff to whom model applies
This model applies to all Professional Services Saff (PSS) up to and including grade 6.
Core time
Core working hours (when staff must be present) are 10.00am to 12 noon and 2.00pm to 4.00pm.
Flexibility with start/finish times
PSS staff can start their normal working hours between 8.00 am and 10.00 am and finish between 4.00 pm and 6.00pm (the period between the earliest start time and latest finish time). Staff are required to make themselves aware of locking up procedures at their local site and the UofG Lone Working Policy prior to working flexibly.
Lunch break
In the interests of health, safety and wellbeing, adequate time should be taken for breaks during the day. Lunch, one hour unpaid breaks, will normally be taken between 12 noon and 2.00pm.
Hybrid working
SHW PSS staff have adopted a 60/40 hybrid working model, 60% in the office and 40% remotely. This does not preclude those Staff who may choose to work 100% in the office if preferred. PSS staff can utilise these flexible working arrangements both when working in the office and at home.
Cover for reception areas
There are some exceptions where these arrangements do not apply such as the Reception area which supports the requirements of the School between 8.00am-4.00pm Monday to Friday.
Overtime
There is no budget provision for overtime. Paid overtime is only possible with prior line manager approval. As per UofG policy, staff at grade 6 and above are not eligible for overtime payments.
SHW Athena SWAN Professional Services Group
December 2025
