While not previously a widespread option for many people, working from home became standard practice in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown. Over the past several years, many people with disabilities have asked for the possibility of remote working and the past year has shown that it can be successful for many businesses. Working from home may provide additional employment opportunities for people with disabilities, along with more flexible working hours and reduced transportation time. However remote working should not be used as a justification for companies to avoid making their workplaces fully accessible or to limit transportation options by local authorities. It is important to maintain the social aspects of a workplace environment to avoid isolation, and many businesses may look to adapt a hybrid approach to office based and remote working in the future.
Remote working strategy
In January 2021, the government published the first remote working strategy, which aims to give employees the right to request to work from home, as well as a code of practice of the right to switch off from work, so that employees are not expected to answer phone calls or work emails out of office hours. For people with disabilities, the option to work from home may also be considered a reasonable accommodation.
Crann Impact Hub
The Impact Hub at Crann is a bright, modern, fully-inclusive co–working space serving Ballincollig, the West Cork city area and beyond, supported by Towards Work and the Open Doors Initiative. Situated on the outskirts of Ballincollig the Impact Hub offers a spacious and vibrant environment for individuals or teams, with a full range of amenities to allow you to work in a pleasant and productive environment.
Impact Hub members have access to key business supports from The Rubicon Centre at Munster Technological University (MTU), Cork City Council Local Enterprise Office, and the Open Doors Initiative. They have great rates, flexible meeting rooms and a great community of professionals, entrepreneurs, and services. They’ve got superfast broadband, lots of free parking, unlimited cups of Nespresso and quiet, peaceful grounds for those moments away from your desk.
