What is the current situation?
Following the devastating stabbings that took place in Southport last week, the United Kingdom has witnessed numerous incidents of racially motivated violence. This racist behaviour by the far-right has been touted as patriotism by some parts of the media, whilst other outlets have recognised the seriousness of these riots
Whilst Keir Starmer has made a statement reassuring the country that the police are taking the necessary legal action to bring justice, and that involvement in the riots will be sanctioned, employers and employees across the country are wondering what impact the riots could have on their own lives.
How can employers help employees that feel unsafe?
During these uncertain periods, some employees may feel a greater sense of anxiety and fear for their safety. It is important that employers have knowledge of which employees may be more vulnerable to the unrest, such as those living in a targeted area, living alone or belonging to an ethnic minority group. There are a few ways you can help employees during this unsettling time:
Communication
It is important to communicate with your employees and to try and understand how they may be feeling about the current situation. Offering this kind of support may allow employees to feel comfortable and safe enough to open up about their worries and, in turn, you can offer some workplace solutions. Moreover, it is also important to communicate with your staff to keep them up to date with any issues that may affect the workplace or their commute.
Flexible working
Some employees may feel that it is unsafe for them to commute to work. In these cases, employers (if it is possible and within your policies) can offer the employees the opportunity to work remotely. In any event, if an employee lives in a highly affected area, travel to work may be very limited due to roadblocks.
Alternatively, some employees may feel that work/the office is a safe space and that a friendly face in a safe environment may be the escape they are needing. It is important to try and avoid lone working in periods of uncertainty such as this.
Flexible working hours could be useful to allow employees to travel to and from work in less busy periods or to reduce the risk of encountering unrest in their community.
Employee wellbeing
Employers should remind employees of the wellbeing resources available to assist them in high-stress periods. Highlighting to your employees any useful platforms/technology for wellbeing, but also encouraging healthy habits such as taking regular breaks or exercising, may help employees to feel more at ease. Remind employees who in your workplace are mental health first aiders and encourage them to speak up if they’re feeling anxious.
What do I do if one of my employees is involved in the riots?
Employee involvement in rioting, unsafe or antisocial behaviour may amount to misconduct or gross misconduct, and might also amount to a breach of the relationship of trust and confidence if their actions are captured and could have a detrimental impact on the employer’s reputation.
Employers should check their policies and take appropriate action against individuals engaging in this unwanted behaviour.
Please reach out to the Outsourced HR and Employment Law Support team here at Thrive via enquiries@thrivelaw.co.uk for more advice on how to support your employees.
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Disclaimer
Please note this blog is for reference purposes only and is only accurate at which the date it was published. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific Legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking or deciding not to take any actions. Please contact us if you have any questions on enquiries@thrivelaw.co.uk.
