A third of workers ‘never consulted’ on major corporate changes

One in three UK workers claim they are never consulted when major change occurs in their organisation, according to research.

The findings come two weeks after the introduction of the UK information and consultation law, which dictates that firms employing more than 150 employees must discuss a wide range of issues with staff (including the business’ economic situation, structure and future plans for employment), if 10% or more of the workforce request it.

This contrasts with current UK employees’ appetite for consultation, with as many as 87% saying they want to be informed and consulted, particularly on issues that could affect them and their peers directly.

The survey by the Talking People consultancy found:

– 87% said they want to be informed and consulted, particularly on issues that could affect them and their peers directly
– 50% of employees are sometimes consulted on major changes
– Employees are more likely to be consulted when working for an organisation with less than 150 employees, with just over one in five (23%) saying they are always consulted
– Scottish employees are the least likely to always be consulted, with only 12% saying this was the case.

Tim Roberts, managing director of Talking People, said: “This may well be down to the fact organisations have yet to inform their employees of the new requirements under law. It is, however, worrying they haven’t heard of any moves afoot within their companies to do so given the extent of business change currently in the UK.”