Work to prepare our main UK offices for a safe, gradual return according to business need continues. Below is an update on progress from locations across the country, with some further detail about the next stages once work is complete.

Rugby Office

• The decluttering at Rugby is very nearly complete:
  • 1^st floor will be finished this week
  • The Marketing team have cleared out their areas on the 8^th floor
  • The 5^th floor declutter will be carried out as part of a larger clear out of archive materials once the divestment to Breedon is finalised. It is anticipated this will be complete by the end of August.
• Once the declutter is finished, certain teams will be reallocated to different areas of the building to ensure they have a suitable space. These teams are being communicated with and work is underway to get their new locations ready
• The Perspex for the screens in reception and on desks has arrived. The reception screening will be installed this week, and work on the desks throughout the building will start at the end of this week/early next
• Additional exit signage for the lift reception area has been ordered, to ensure people know which way they need to exit the building

Other Offices

• Preston Brook:
  • Physical distancing signage is now in place
  • Perspex screens due to be installed on desks in early August
  • Final housekeeping to be completed e.g. cable tidying
• Decluttering almost finished at Egham and surplus filing cabinets being removed for use elsewhere
• Stockton decluttering has finished

Next Steps

As pat of the next stage of preparation, a ‘return to office trial’ is being held at the Rugby office for two weeks in mid-August. The 4^th floor will be participating in this trial, and all those involved have been communicated with. This two-week period will test if 50% occupancy at offices is practical and highlight any pressure points / potential issues to be overcome.

However, it is important all employees are aware that this trial does not mean a return to offices is imminent – no one will return before the start of September at the very earliest. Any potential return will be phased and gradual, at a reduced capacity, according to business need. It will also be dependent on Government advice and national Coronavirus statistics, particularly considering concerns about a second wave.

The safety of employees remains our number one priority and the offices will not be reopened until the time is right. We ask all employees to continue to be patient, and work remotely as they have been doing until we advise otherwise.