Barclays Bank's decision to increase required office attendance from two to three days per week has sparked staff resistance, with employees and the Unite union seeking compensation for additional commuting costs. The columnist argues that the work-from-home lobby, supported by some Labour politicians who propose to require employers to justify flexible working decisions, is disconnected from broader economic challenges including rising unemployment, falling vacancies, and the situation of nearly one million young people not in education, employment or training (NEETs).

The article emphasises that one in five NEETs report mental health conditions and notes that work can provide beneficial structure and support for wellbeing. It suggests work requires rebranding to highlight positive aspects such as income, self-respect, and social participation, and supports proposals including an HSBC-backed youth enterprise scheme and recommendations from Labour elder statesman Alan Milburn for "tough love" welfare measures to encourage young people into employment or training.