Hybrid working at the University

16 Jun 2022

Over the last year we have been piloting our Hybrid Working principles, to overwhelmingly positive feedback

Over 80% of colleagues noted the changes had a favourable impact on wellbeing and productivity. In addition, 92% of staff agree that there are positive levels of trust in teams across the University (Hybrid Sentiment Survey Insights, January 2022).

PS Hybrid Working in the future

As part of our project vision, objectives and outcomes, we know our next focus area is to ensure our estate enables PS staff to work in a hybrid way that prioritises the wellbeing of staff and students.

Subject to business case approval, we aim to develop a refreshed space that will address the challenges captured in our Hybrid Sentiment Survey (January 2022) such as lack of social contact, improper desk-sharing set ups, high volume of online meetings and IT issues.

To achieve this vision, we will focus on developing the right balance between quiet, work and social zones, all supported by the appropriate IT and AV equipment. This work will take into account the demands on our estate posed by the forecasted growth in student numbers, especially in teaching and learning spaces. The shared spaces will be inclusive for staff of all equalities.

We have appointed Avison Young, a property and construction consultancy, to conduct a feasibility study of two of our buildings: John Owens and the Christie Building. They will assess and make recommendations on the viability of adapting either or both buildings to be designated Hybrid Workspaces.

What PS colleagues need to know for now

Avison Young began work on the study in May and will report their findings by late Summer 2022, so we would like to make colleagues aware of their presence on campus for the next months.

You do not need to take any specific action for now. However, to ensure accuracy, we ask colleagues based in John Owens and the Christie Building not to order large pieces of furniture or equipment while the feasibility study is ongoing. Colleagues can still order basic IT equipment such as docking stations, USB ports, cables, keyboards etc.

This is a collaborative process, and we will keep colleagues updated every step of the way. Once the review is complete, we will share updates on recommendations and next steps. If you have any questions, please email the project team at hybrid@manchester.ac.uk.

• If you’d like to add any comments at this stage, please do so on our Padlet wall.