teleworking

Laws governing teleworking are complex and incomplete. In many areas, a teleworker has the same rights, under the same legislation, as an office-based worker.

A European non-binding framework agreement on teleworking has been developed (from which much of workSMART's guidance is taken), but this is currently not enforceable in law, and has not been implemented in the UK. Instead, for the time being, it acts mainly as a good practice guide for employers and employees.

If you are considering teleworking, it would be a good idea to talk with your trade union representative, if you are a member of one, or to seek individual legal advice, based on your company's proposed teleworking agreement.

• What is teleworking?  more...
• What is the legal status of teleworking?  more...
• What issues do I need to consider before starting to work from home?  more...
• Can my employer force me to adopt teleworking when I'd rather work in the office?  more...
• Can I change to teleworking to help me care for my young children?  more...
• I'm a teleworker. Should I still have a contract of employment?  more...
• Can my employer dismiss me for refusing to adopt teleworking?  more...
• I’ve tried teleworking and it isn't for me. Can I go back to working at the office?  more...
• What should I look for before signing an agreement to start teleworking?  more...
• What right to privacy at home do I have if I'm a teleworker?  more...
• I'm a teleworker. Who is responsible for health and safety in my home?  more...
• What health and safety issues should I be considering as a teleworker?  more...
• Where can I get more advice on teleworking?  more...

further information

For more information on the health and safety aspects of teleworking, and what you need to be looking out for, see the teleworking chapter in our health channel.