We publish blogs to provide insights from, and stimulate debate about, the latest research and thinking. Any views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Institute as a whole.
Astrid Allen examines the challenges facing single working parents, makes recommendations for the changes needed for employers to offer more support, and looks the evidence showing the business benefits of doing this.
In the light of the House of Lords’ inquiry, Astrid Allen explores the continuing trend of home and hybrid working following the COVID-19 lockdowns, the comparable benefits of at-home and in-office working, and approaches to achieving the right balance moving forward.
In support of the national Carers Week initiative, Alison Carter and Arundhati Dave reflect on recent IES research that considers what works best in helping people with caring responsibilities to enter, or return to the labour market - and stay in work.
In the light of significant increases in remote, hybrid and flexible working since the COVID-19 pandemic, Helena Saenz de Juano Ribes explores how this trend has brought into focus the inequalities between job roles, areas of work and different industries.
In the light of the new Labour government's pledge to make flexible working the default, Astrid Allen looks at how this could be possible for the NHS, and what the benefits could be.
Astrid Allen summarises the findings from a two-year action research programme to introduce flexibility into frontline roles and evaluate its impact, on both the individual and the organisation.
Following her recent webinar, Astrid Allen summarises the new flexible working legislation and how it will change the process for employees requesting flexibility. She also refers to recent research and recommendations on best practise for flexible working arrangements to benefit employees, employers and organisations alike.
The demand for remote and/or flexible working arrangements outstrips their availability, while jobs advertised with flexible workplace models attract a higher number of applicants. Dan Muir looks at the availability of flexible and remote working across the UK and identifies which jobs offer the most and least amount of flexibility.
Flexible working can take many forms and is in high demand by many employees. Astrid Allen reflects on recent research focusing on people who work in site-based roles and details several steps that employers can take to reap the equality, wellbeing and productivity benefits of flexible working.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Week, Abbie Winton and Astrid Allen consider the role that flexible working could play in supporting men living more balanced lives, and how organisations should consider enabling more men to work flexibly to support improved wellbeing.
