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<p>The Department anticipated, and then saw, an increase in demand for its services
as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It responded by rapidly expanding the space
available, on a temporary basis, predominantly in major conurbations. The focus was
on areas with good transport links and in buildings that were accessible for both
colleagues and customers.</p><p> </p><p>This enabled the Department to provide a workplace
that was safe for claimants and colleagues and ensured we could adhere to the Government
guidance in place at the time. To ensure flexibility, premises were acquired on short-term,
flexible lease arrangements to ensure we could reduce the size of the estate at the
appropriate time.</p>
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