Lawyers at Slaughter and May, the City law firm, will be able to bring their dogs to the office as part of a wellbeing drive if a new trial is successful.
The magic circle firm emailed staff this month to say it will trial a “bring your dog to work” policy amid a war for talent in the Square Mile.
The first pilot day will be on June 24 and, if successful, Slaughter and May will extend the scheme to take place on the last Friday of each month.
Slaughter and May’s employees were told that their dogs will not be allowed in the staff canteen, coffee breakout areas or meeting rooms during the trial.
They also must ask colleagues they share offices with whether they are happy to have pets present in order to accommodate those who are uncomfortable or unable to be around dogs.
Deborah Finkler, the new managing partner, said: “I have long been an advocate of having our dogs in the office and so am delighted that we are trialling Slaughter and May’s first ever ‘bring your dog to work’ day.
“The benefits of all animals and especially dogs to mental health, morale and alleviating stress are widely recognised, and I also hope that the trial makes for a fun and sociable day.”
The firm added: “We understand that not everyone is comfortable, or able to be around dogs and have put in place a series of guidelines around the day.”
The Times (Tracey Boles) - https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/a36ac5b6-eff1-11ec-b0c8-27c99cdfb733?shareToken=7076b1a3780851088bcc6b2086c8e559
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