Barclays has watered down its return-to-office plans after a major staff backlash, with the bank allowing some employees to wait until next year before having to be in at least three days a week.

The bank this summer announced the attendance requirement would come in for its 45,000 UK staff from 5 October, with more senior employees expected to come in for at least four days. That compares with current rules requiring staff to come in for two days.

Automatic exemptions of in-office attendance rules during school holidays and Christmas.

Capping in-office requirements at one day a week for any carers or people with disabilities.

Flexible start and finish times to allow for cheaper off-peak travel costs and to accommodate school pickup and drop-offs.

A single, consolidated payment made to all staff to make up for the costs of coming into the office, before March 2027.