Before I start this blog – a little caveat... I was on annual leave during the June heatwave (I know, what a week to choose!). I was at home, but on leave, so I get that I was more fortunate that the rest of my colleagues, who were having to provide top quality service in the blistering heat.

But the June 2026 heatwave was a timely reminder that extreme weather is no longer a rare disruption for UK businesses. As temperatures climbed well above seasonal norms, organisations across the country had to adapt quickly to keep staff comfortable while continuing to deliver great customer service.

One of the biggest lessons was the importance of putting people first. Hot weather affects everyone differently, so a little flexibility can make a big difference. Allowing relaxed dress codes, offering flexible start and finish times to avoid the hottest part of the day, encouraging regular breaks, and ensuring easy access to cold drinking water all help colleagues stay comfortable and productive.

Managers should also check in with employees who may be more vulnerable to the heat, including those with existing health conditions or physically demanding roles.

Planning ahead also proved invaluable. Businesses that reviewed ventilation, serviced air conditioning, or invested in fans were better prepared when temperatures soared. For teams working outdoors, adjusting schedules to minimise time in direct sunlight helped reduce heat-related risks, also providing the right protective equipment, including sunscreen, when outdoor work was required.

Of course, customers still expect excellent service, whatever the weather. The businesses that performed best were those that communicated openly if delays were likely, kept customers informed through email and social media, and empowered frontline staff to resolve issues quickly. Small gestures, such as offering chilled refreshments in customer-facing premises or extending response times with clear explanations, also helped maintain goodwill.

The heatwave highlighted that resilience isn't just about technology or infrastructure—it's about people. Looking after employees creates a better experience for customers too, as supported, comfortable teams are better equipped to deliver the friendly, professional service customers expect.

With warmer summers becoming increasingly common, businesses that build heat preparedness into their continuity plans will be better positioned to protect their workforce, maintain productivity, and continue meeting customer expectations, whatever the forecast.

So, Fans of Plans, get that contingency planning in place, because we’ll be feeling the heat more often!

 
PS - If you are keen for some individual wellbeing tips to complement this Working Well life, check our Being Yourself Series with Make Me A Plan's Performance Planner, Gemma Mullinger. You can read the latest edition here: YOU DON’T GET WHAT YOU WANT, YOU GET WHAT YOU ARE - Make Me A Plan