u/AdEfficient2718

Hi all,

I’m employed in the UK (14 years service). My contract states my place of work is remote/home-based, and I have worked fully remotely for ~10 years with strong performance.

My employer is now requiring a return to a London office (approx. 5-hour daily commute). I have not agreed to any contractual change.

HR has informally stated my options are:

• relocate / attend office, or
• accept a settlement (seven months’ pay suggested informally)

I also have significant caring responsibilities for an autistic child.

I am considering either:

• raising a formal grievance, or
• engaging in settlement negotiations

My questions:

1. What are the legal implications of raising a grievance vs negotiating settlement in a situation where the contract specifies remote/home-based work?
2. If I refuse the change, can the employer lawfully proceed via dismissal/re-engagement
3. Would caring responsibilities potentially engage protections under the Equality Act 2010 in relation to this type of enforced change?
4. Does entering settlement discussions typically weaken or strengthen an employee’s position legally in disputes like this?