Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 31
31
Deferred
CCRC's fully remote working model poses concerns for complex investigative casework and staff interaction.
Conclusion
We were shocked by the CCRC leadership’s decision—quite out of line with the rest of the public sector where hybrid working prevails—to turn the organisation fully remote. We struggle to understand how investigative case work, with its complexities and potential for distress, is suitable to be undertaken fully from home, even with the most robust virtual support in place. We find it difficult to see how staff can readily and spontaneously get advice, talk through difficult issues or share concerns—with each other and with commissioners—in the way they had done in the office. Amanda Pearce told us that that there was “no magic” to working in the office. Although we would not describe it as “magic”, we believe that there is much to be gained for staff and their work from interacting in the office. (Conclusion, Paragraph 93) 48
Government Response Summary
The government states the CCRC is responsible for determining its staff's terms and conditions and working locations as the employer. While agreeing on the importance of senior leadership presence, it clarifies CCRC staff are public servants, not civil servants, and the working model is ultimately for the CCRC Chair and Chief Executive to define.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
CCRC staff are employed on terms and conditions determined by the CCRC as their employer. In relation to base of work, the CCRC is responsible for determining contractual locations in the best way so that its services can be operated. However, we agree with the Committee that the presence of senior leadership conveys important messages to staff. This is one reason why the Civil Service People Plan 2024-20277 sets the expectation that senior managers will spend more than 60% of their working time face to face with their colleagues in offices or out on official business. However, we recognise that CCRC staff are public servants, not Civil Servants and it is ultimately for the CCRC Chair and Chief Executive to define the best staff working model for the Commission, and the Ministry of Justice will support the organisation as it makes those decisions.