Beyond the hybrid

Exploring the potential for a broader approach to flexible working

Allen A | HR Network Paper 161  | Institute for Employment Studies  | Jun 2023

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Flexible working is a term which covers a wide variety of working practices, which change where, when or how much someone works. Research reveals significant inequality in the use of flexible working arrangements in the UK and a significant unmet demand from the working population. 

Ahead of her HR Network presentation, Astrid Allen considers the substantial challenge in enabling the benefits of flexible working to reach those who often need it most. The paper details the evidenced-based benefits of working flexibly and reflects on several flexible working project pilots where IES is working closely with participating employers to capture data showing the impact that enhanced flexibility has on staff, including employee wellbeing, productivity and retention.