NKDC staff will not return to offices until 2021

Leader of North Kesteven District Council, Coun Richard Wright, said: “We are continuing to take all the precautions we can for our customers, colleagues and members.

“One of the most effective measures we can take is working remotely, and so we’ve taken the decision to continue working in an agile way until December 31, 2020. This is also in line with the Government’s guidance for office based places of employment, which remains that everyone should work from home unless they cannot.

“We hope that giving colleagues this forward notice will help them plan for the months ahead, especially as many families adjust to changes to schooling, childcare or continue to care for loved ones.”

He said the teams have adapted brilliantly while maintaining services and high standards.

“Our Customer Services Team are assisting residents and answering queries over the phone and online. And, thanks to much work by our IT and Democratic Services Teams, various council meetings with members are being held virtually.

“We recognise that some of our essential services will still require colleagues to complete work from our offices at times. This will not take place without prior approval and risk assessments wherever this is the case.”

While handling most enquiries via telephone or online the council continues to monitor feedback and is liaising with other occupiers of their buildings, so their approach may change if virus threat levels may subside. Coun Wright paid tribute to frontline services, such refuse crews, who cannot work remotely.