What does remote working mean in UCC? 

Remote working refers to an arrangement where employees perform their work duties from a location outside UCC such as their home or another suitable agreed location. Under a remote working arrangement, staff will ordinarily be resident in Ireland and within a reasonable commuting distance of the University. Remote working outside the island of Ireland will not be facilitated. Staff working remotely may be required to attend the workplace at short notice. Employees posted to specific roles or assignments abroad may be facilitated in exceptional circumstances.  At UCC, remote working is part of our hybrid working model, where employees split their time between working remotely and being on campus. Remote working requires maintaining connectivity, meeting performance expectations, and ensuring service delivery, while also having a suitable environment that supports productive work. 

What is the difference between remote working and flexible working for caring purposes? 

Remote working affords eligible staff the opportunity to work their normal working hours remotely as agreed with their Line Manager while Flexible Working for Caring Purposes provides eligible staff for those with caregiving responsibilities with the adjustment of an employee’s working hours or working pattern, including through the use of remote working arrangements, flexible working schedules or reduced working hours The Right to Request Flexible Working Arrangements for Caring Purposes sets out the types of flexible working available under this policy 

Can I work entirely remotely, or is there a minimum requirement to be in UCC? 

No, under the UCC policy, fully remote working is not permitted. To maintain connectivity, promote well-being, and support a vibrant campus atmosphere, all staff are required to attend the campus for a minimum of two days per week. There may be times when staff are required to be on campus more frequently, or for additional days during specific periods, to meet service delivery needs. Remote working arrangements will depend on service requirements, the nature of the role, flexibility needs, and the suitability of the individual’s remote-working environment. 

How will my remote working arrangement be agreed and what is expected in terms of my working hours? 

Your Line Manager will discuss and agree the extent to which your role together with your level of experience, required supervision, training needs and performance standards allow for remote working. In the University, normal working hours are 09.00 – 17.00hrs. Unless other working hours are agreed, employees are expected to be available during these hours whether working in UCC or remotely. If alternative hours are agreed under this policy, the revised working hours will be recorded on the Right to Request Remote Working application form.  

Can my manager ask me to attend UCC on days I work remotely? 

While your normal remote working pattern i.e. days working remotely and days working in UCC will be agreed, you are expected to be flexible and to attend UCC on additional and/or different days depending on operational and service requirements. 

Do I need approval to change my working pattern? 

Yes, you are expected to contact your manager if you are intending to change your agreed working pattern.  

Will there be occasions under a remote working arrangement where staff may be required to attend the workplace at short notice? 

Yes, arising from service and operational needs staff may be required to attend the workplace at short notice and to undertake their working hours on any day in UCC.   

How do we ensure effective communication between remote and in-office team members? 

You are expected to remain engaged and visible and to engage in effective and timely communication regardless of whether you are working remotely or in UCC. This includes responding to requests and following up on work and being proactive in your engagement with work colleagues during working hours. 

What tools or platforms will we use for meetings and collaboration? 

The tools or platforms used in UCC are Microsoft Teams or the UCC email. Your manager will discuss any other relevant tools as relevant to your work  

Will I still have access to my own desk or space if I work in a hybrid or flexible arrangement? 

No, under UCC’s approach to hybrid and flexible working, there will be no automatic right to a designated workstation or single-occupancy office for any grade. Instead, UCC is adopting agile, open-plan workspaces to optimise desk utilisation and office space. This means that desks will be shared and allocated on a flexible basis. Employees are encouraged to use shared workstations and collaborate in open-plan environments that support blended working. Office configurations may also change as part of this approach. These arrangements are designed to make the best use of available space while maintaining effectiveness and supporting new ways of working. 

Will meetings have both in-person and virtual options? 

No, while some meetings may have virtual options, you may be required to attend in person meetings and on days when you would not ordinarily be in UCC. 

How can I maintain a clear boundary between work and home life? 

It is your responsibility to put in place clear and effective routines and structures in relation to your work. This includes taking breaks and maintaining good work-life balance. You are also reminded of your responsibilities under the Right to Disconnect  

What happens if I feel my workload is unmanageable in this new model? 

If you feel your workload is unmanageable, it is important to address the issue promptly. Start by speaking with your line manager to discuss your concerns and explore adjustments. This could include prioritising tasks, reallocating responsibilities, or reviewing deadlines. UCC is committed to supporting staff in the hybrid working model. You may also access resources such as Employee Assistance Programme, well-being support, or time management training to help manage your workload effectively. Remember, open communication and proactive planning are key to ensuring your workload remains balanced and achievable.