A recent report has shown that the number of people working ‘flexible hours’ has increased five-fold in the last two decades.
This is according to data analysed by the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo).
The 1999 Labour Force Survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that the percentage of people working flexible hours in the UK was 9.5% at that time.
Recent statistics from CIPDshow that this number has drastically increased, with 54% of workers currently having the option to operate outside of typical nine-to-five office hours.
However, despite this huge development in improving work-life balance, professionals still want more autonomy. The CIPD 2019 UK Working Lives Report reveals that two in three professionals (68%) would like to work flexibly in a way that is not currently available.
Thinking of appointing Dolan Accountancy?
Give us a call on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.
Email JaimeCommenting on the analysis, Ann Swain, Chief Executive of APSCo, said, “It’s great to see that employees are being offered greater flexibility and autonomy over their own work. This certainly is a step in the right direction in ensuring that the workforce is motivated and engaged in meaningful work. The advancements of technology over the past 20 years have no doubt played a significant part in making this possible. The collaborative software now available means that team members can communicate and work remotely with ease.
“Flexible working also plays an important role in bringing equality to the workplace. People with disabilities or caring responsibilities, for example, often are unable to commute to the office or work conventional hours, therefore the option to work part-time, compressed hours or remotely is a necessity. As more employers begin to see the opportunities associated with flexible working, we can both boost diversity and inclusion and help end the dire skills shortages which are impacting many sectors.”
To find out more about contracting please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com