When Do the Clocks Go Forward? A Quick Guide from Contract Personnel

If you’re wondering when do the clocks go forward, you’re not alone. Every year, the arrival of British Summer Time (BST) catches many people off guard – especially busy professionals balancing work and life.

And for those of you with alarm clocks, car clocks or clocks on the kitchen wall, it means we spent the next few months reminding ourselves ‘I need to change the time on the clock’.

In the UK, the clocks will go forward at 01:00 GMT on 29 March 2026.

This means we lose an hour of sleep, but gain longer, lighter evenings – something many of us look forward to after the winter months.

What It Means for Workers and Employers

At Contract Personnel, we understand that even a one-hour time change can have an impact – especially for shift workers and early starters

Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Shift adjustments: Night shift workers may work one hour less when the clocks go forward.
• Punctuality: It’s easy to forget the change – double-check alarms and schedules.
• Work-life balance: Lighter evenings can boost morale and encourage outdoor activities after work.

Tips to Prepare for the Time Change

To make the transition smoother, Contract Personnel recommends:

• Going to bed slightly earlier the night before
• Updating all clocks and devices in advance
• Planning work schedules ahead of time, especially for shift-based roles

Supporting Your Workforce

As a recruitment agency, Contract Personnel is committed to helping both employers and candidates navigate changes like daylight saving time with ease. Whether you’re managing staff schedules or looking for flexible work opportunities, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

01603 764044 – perms@cpl.uk.com