The call for everyone who can work from home to do so for up to 6 months will have far-reaching consequences. I’m sure the Gov has assessed the trade-offs, but I’m worried...

(& yes, I know the aim is to stop the spread)

1/
🚨 Mental health will deteriorate: number of people suffering depression almost doubled June vs pre-pandemic.

We’re now heading into Winter – darker days, worse weather (prob also means less exercise). More isolation, less social interaction w/out offices.

2/
🚨 Ppl on lower incomes will struggle: heating your home in Winter is not cheap, just because you’re an office worker doesn’t make you well paid. Not all businesses will be able to afford to cover this cost as well as pay for unused offices & deal with lower consumer demand.

3/
Plus many, particularly young, living in cramped, shared spaces with no ‘work’ space. Also adding to the mental health strain.

4/
🚨 Young people entering the labour market will suffer: networking, observing, informal coaching & mentoring, impromptu chats all help new starters develop and progress.

Work also provides envnt for developing new friendships post-educ'n (...mental health)

5/
🚨 Businesses that rely on office workers will fail & jobs will be lost - this isn't just about city centres, but supply chains. Caterers, cleaners, suppliers...

This will lead to long-term scarring for individuals & the ec

6/
🚨 & what happens re public transport that will remain well below viability capacity?

And the businesses based in and around transport hubs?

I'm not, at all, saying everyone should be in their office, but the potential costs of everyone returning to WFH could be v high

7/7
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