Employers should show “common sense” and let football fans work flexibly on Monday, TUC says

Ahead of England’s crucial knock out match against Mexico, the TUC is today (Friday) calling on employers to – where possible – accommodate workers’ flexible working requests on Monday to let them stay up late and watch the game. 

With hopes of bringing home the trophy now resting on every game, the stakes are incredibly high for the England as they fight for a chance to play in the quarter finals.

While not all workers will be able to work flexibly, the TUC is urging bosses to show “common sense and understanding” and allow staff to work from home or come in later, where possible. Employers could also give employees option to make the time back later in the week after the game.

And with pubs set to stay open until the early hours to welcome fans watching the game, hospitality staff should be paid fairly for any overtime work they clock in. 

Taking a sensible approach and allowing staff to work flexibly where they can will improve morale and motivation and boost productivity, the union body says. 

TUC General Secretary, and England and Everton fan Paul Nowak said:

“World Cup fever has gripped the UK, with millions of workers across the country cheering on the Three Lions.

“The timing of England’s match against Mexico is not ideal for fans. That’s why we are appealing to employers to show some common sense and understanding by allowing their staff to work flexibly where possible.

“That could mean letting them start later on Monday or swap their hours.

“I’ll be cheering on my team – as will workers up and down the country. Come on England!”

On flexible working more broadly, Paul added: 

“Flexible working shouldn’t stop when the World Cup ends.

“Whether it’s about watching major sporting events, attending a family celebration or picking up the kids from school, allowing people more flexibility is a gamechanger – it makes them happier, cuts absenteeism and raises productivity.”

ENDS