British bank NatWest plans to end remote-first schedules in February 2027, requiring affected employees to attend a workplace at least twice a week as a union warns of higher household costs.
The Irish News and BBC reported that 13,497 employees in the remote-first category would be affected. They also reported that 17,272 workers already on hybrid schedules would attend more often. The Irish News said remote-first employees currently visit a workplace about twice a month.
NatWest’s careers guidance sets a minimum of two office days a week for most hybrid jobs. Some positions require more time on site. The guidance describes office-first jobs as based mainly or entirely in a workplace, but does not list a remote-first category.
Unite says the change will increase travel and childcare expenses for workers and disrupt some caring arrangements. The union has raised particular concerns about lower-paid employees, carers and people managing health conditions. It has asked NatWest to reconsider the policy and consult staff.
“For many workers, homeworking is not a perk,” said Caren Evans, Unite’s national officer for finance.
NatWest says regular in-person contact benefits employees and customers. A bank spokesperson said affected workers would have time to prepare for the change. The new attendance requirement is planned for February 2027.
