#OffshoreMentalHealth: Extended Remote Working
For this month’s #OffshoreMentalHealth highlight, we are shining a spotlight on our pioneering Extended Remote Working policy. Designed with our employees’ wellbeing at the forefront, and with SLPE as a sector leader in family-friendly policies, this scheme allows our team members the option to work from anywhere in the world for an extended period—up to one month twice a year!
This scheme offers our employees the unique opportunity to keep up with their work responsibilities from wherever they feel most fulfilled, connected, or inspired. This could mean visiting family abroad, soaking up a fresh environment, taking a breather from their usual surroundings, or simply being able to work remotely at home so they have more time with their loved ones.
We asked some of our team to share their experiences with the scheme. Their stories underscore how impactful this initiative can be on mental health and work-life balance:
Pin-Yu Chen
“Having the chance to work from my home country, Taiwan, for an extended time has been really priceless for me. Travelling to and from London on annual leave usually means only a brief visit, but this prolonged time allowed me to truly reconnect with family and friends. I worked through the day, which kept me professionally engaged, and was then free to spend quality time with loved ones during the evenings and weekends. From a mental health perspective, this connection back home has been invaluable. I’m so grateful to SLPE for making this possible and am already planning my next visit during Chinese New Year!”
Miles Newton
"Taking a month in Kalymnos, Greece, was exactly what I needed after a challenging period. It gave me the chance to try Kalymnos’ renowned outdoor rock climbing experiences, something I’d dreamed of after getting into bouldering here in London. But more than that, it provided an essential break from everyday stresses. The sun, the peaceful five-minute walk to the beach, and the thrill of doing something new made a huge difference to my mental health, helping me reset and recharge. Having this extended time away means I’m more resilient when I’m back to work in the UK.”
James Moss
“Japan had long been on my bucket list, and spending three weeks there while working remotely was a dream come true. The best part? Being free from the London commute for a while! We all know how the daily grind can wear you down, so having this change of scene really helped refresh my mindset. Coming back, I felt revitalised and ready to tackle work with a new perspective. I can’t thank SLPE enough for allowing me this time—this scheme genuinely impacts my quality of life."
Extended Remote Working not only supports our employees’ personal needs but also enriches our company culture, allowing for a workplace where wellbeing and work-life balance truly comes first. Are you a people manager looking to improve mental health and family-friendly policies in an office-based offshore environment? You are welcome to explore our #OffshoreMentalHealth campaign for more inspiration: