What's new on Dover Wealth Management?

This year investment insights

FCA braced for backlash over move to increase office attendance

The City regulator has told thousands of staff that they will be required to work in its offices or equivalent locations for at least half the time from later this year, risking the renewal of a showdown which last year led to threats of industrial action. 21 January, 2026

The City regulator has told thousands of staff that they will be required to work in its offices or equivalent locations for at least half the time from later this year, risking the renewal of a showdown which last year led to threats of industrial action.

Sky News has learnt that the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) rushed out a communication to employees on Tuesday, which included a stipulation that all executive directors and directors will have to work at least 60% of their time in the office, beginning in September.

The rest of its workforce will be set a 50% minimum office attendance level - up from the current ratio of 40%, or two days a week.

The FCA had scheduled internal meetings with thousands of staff on January 28 to communicate the outcome of a review of its working from home policy.

After Sky News revealed some details of the plans earlier in the day, executive director Sarah Pritchard wrote to staff to communicate "our headline approach".

In her email, a copy of which has been seen by Sky News, Ms Pritchard said compliance with the revised policy would be assessed over a three-month period, rather than on a monthly basis.

"We believe that a minimum 50/50 split between time in the office and at home will deliver greater collaboration and innovation, support the mentoring and development of colleagues, help us to solve complex or novel problems more easily, reduce miscommunication and strengthen our shared senses of purpose," she wrote.

Inside the new breed of 'zero bills' homes where you pay nothing for your energy

Netflix disappoints investors after bid for Warner Bros simplified

Private sector wage rises drop to a five year low

The FCA has been contacted for comment.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Last year, the Unite union which represents many FCA staff warned that strike action could not be ruled out if the office attendance requirement was increased.

The response of the regulator's staff to the announcement will underline the sensitivities which remain around hybrid working, even after many of the companies that the FCA regulates have ordered some staff to resume full-time office working.

Join Dover Wealth Management

Careers

Don’t just come to work.
Come to change.

Successful careers take collaboration. See who you’l work with, where you fit, what you’ll do and how you can reach your potential.

Careers