No to pilot flexi scheme 
for courts

The public and commercial services PCS union has advised its members not to volunteer to take part in flexible operating hours pilots due to be launched by HM Courts and Tribunal Services (HMCTS) because of the negative impact on the health of staff working long or longer hours.


The union has also backed calls from the Bar Council, which represents barristers in England and Wales, for a new court sitting protocol to address an increasing tendency to list cases early or late in the court day. The association says the practice has widespread implications, including for wellbeing.


PCS says the Bar Council’s criticism comes as HMCTS is proposing to launch flexible operating hours in crown courts, magistrates’ courts and the civil and family courts in pilot locations in London, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield. 


The union does not believe that there is any evidence that flexible hours are required and says the pilots are being introduced with a view to further centralise work, cut jobs and facilitate the closure of a significant number of additional courts. 


The pilots run contrary to HMCTS’s stated aim of promoting staff wellbeing and that there is also a “clear and increased risk of making mistakes” when magistrates and their advisors, as well as juries, are tired, according to the union.


Independent research has shown that working too long or too hard can have a negative impact on health and lead to high levels of stress.

https://www.pcs.org.uk/news/tackle-the-growing-long-hours-culture-in-our-courts