Elmbridge embraces sustainability with a technology solution designed to facilitate effective hybrid working for employees

18 September update: Cabinet approved this proposal. This will now go to October Council for final agreement.

As an organisation embracing hybrid working, we need to ensure our employees have the appropriate technology to support their roles now and in the future, allowing us to provide an excellent service to our community.

At September’s Cabinet meeting (18 September), Councillors will be asked to recommend to Council (2 October), a proposal to equip our colleagues and Councillors with agile technology mainly in the form of a laptop and additional hardware such as a docking station, which can be transported and used whether working from home, an office or around the borough on site visits.

A budget of £96,995 per annum over five years is being sought to invest in this technology, which will build upon our current technology and support Elmbridge Borough Council as a high performing organisation.

Currently our employees use a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and office-based computers to deliver their role. Some use council supplied equipment while others use their own equipment.

At all times and no matter the device, we ensure our technology and the programmes they run are secure and compliant.

Delivering sustainable tech with 40% saving

Following a marketplace options appraisal, our solution delivers on cost effectiveness and sustainability, as well as supporting Elmbridge as a high performing organisation and as an employer of choice in Surrey.

We will provide laptops that are remanufactured, rather than reconditioned or recycled, achieving a saving of up to 40% on the cost of an equivalent new model. Each laptop undergoes a rigorous process where components are inspected and anything not meeting stringent quality standards is replaced with a brand-new part. 

All employees and Councillors will be provided with laptops and the accompanying technology required for this new approach. We are aiming for a phased roll out from January 2025.

Cllr Mike Rollings, Leader

Cllr Jez Langham, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Resources

For more information

You can read the September Cabinet report through our website.

The meeting on 18 September will also be webcast.