Guidelines and policies
SHW flexible working model
Whilst University of Glasgow has no formal policy on flexitime in the workplace, flexitime schemes are currently in operation across the university. There are some variations in these, and this is an amended version of a scheme which has been in use 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 be reviewing and revising this flexitime scheme to ensure that it remains useful and workable.
The current working model
This model formalises a flexible attendance system, benefiting 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 should not be confused with the formal UofG flexible working policy which is available across the university.
Staff to whom model applies
This model applies to all professional services staff (PSS) up to and including grade 6.
Hybrid working
SHW PSS staff follow a 60/40 hybrid working model, 60% in the office and 40% remotely. Staff may choose to work 100% in the office if preferred.
PSS staff can start their normal working hours at 8.00am and finish at 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.
Core time (the time when staff must be at work)
Core working hours (when staff must be present) are 10.00am to 12 noon and 2.00pm to 4.00pm.
Cover for reception areas
The Reception area supports the requirements of the School between 8.00am-4.00pm Monday to Friday.
Flexible working hours
8.00am and 6.00pm including an hour's lunch break.
Lunch break
In the interests of health, safety and wellbeing, adequate time should be taken for breaks during the day. Lunch will normally be taken between 12 noon and 2.00pm.
Overtime
There is no budget provision for overtime. Paid overtime (beyond flexitime bandwidth) is only possible in exceptional cases and requires 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
