Staff Rest Area

[JBW1366]

Once again, I have another question - our new owners of the company I work for are trying to change - so again any help gratefully appreciated.

We had a designated staff rest area, which they have changed to a residents dining room new furniture, decorating etc- and they have stated this is not to be used by staff. Next to this area is an old office - with nothing in it apart from old furniture etc - so staff have been using this - they have asked for the door to this office be locked shut and not used by staff.They know staff are using this office as they have been watching the newly installed CCTV, and letting the management team know -even over the festive period.

Consequently staff now have no area for their belongings (lockers were disposed off) and to have a break apart from residents dining room. Are they obliged to have an area where staff can have their breaks within the building and somewhere where staff can store their belonging safely whilst at work?