Are you feeling lonely today?

The world of work was completely turned upside down by Covid and its legacy still remains. Terminology like 'hybrid working' has entered our everyday lexicon and your workplace is as likely to be the kitchen table or cyberspace, as an office. Not everyone is able to work remotely though and this can cause a feeling of inequity.

Our Prime Minister may have described working from home as never-ending cups of coffee and nibbles of cheese, but most people I know actually work harder. They start earlier, finish later, have less breaks and don't chat socially to colleagues. And that's one of the key issues - no talking about the latest Soap, football or latest celebrity gossip over the kettle or photocopier. You don't get to know people as well and there is not the same feeling of camaraderie. In short, people can feel lonely at work and this social isolation can contribute to poor mental health.

So what can we do? Well the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) have recently provided some 'top tips'. These include:

• Don't assume that you know your workforce. Find out what they feel and what they want. Perception Surveys are helpful as people may be afraid to speak up. Act on the findings and try to align your approach to theirs where possible and if you can't at least you can now manage expectations.

• Build in time to have regular informal and formal meetings with staff members. Have a wellbeing conversation. Encourage people to form peer groups - as this encourages a sense of belonging and togetherness.

• Provide plenty of opportunities for staff to collaborate with each other on projects or wellbeing activities.

• Don't forget those whose job doesn't allow them to work remotely, understand how they may feel and work to dispel any notions of inequality.

• Ensure work is manageable and keep an eye on the hours people are working so they are not excessive - tell tale signs are often when emails are sent!

• Finally, have details of places where you can signpost staff to if they are struggling - having these to hand will ensure a timely response and is more likely to solicit action.

Lonely at work? I'm not sure that's something we would have predicted 20 years ago - but it's very real and only likely to get worse unless we acknowledge it and act.