The CIPD is calling on organisations and government to make the right to request flexible working a day-one right.
Flexible working practices in the UK aren’t fair. Those in lower paid, more manual occupations often don't have access to the same flexible working opportunities as those in higher paid, managerial professions.
The CIPD’s Flex From 1st campaign aims to make access to flexible working arrangements more equal.
While COVID-19 has driven an increase in remote working, 46% of UK employees still do not have flexible working – whether that be remote working, flexi-time, job shares, compressed hours, part-time working or other flexible working arrangements – in their current role, finds CIPD research. And those without access to flexible working are around twice as likely to be dissatisfied in their job, compared to those who do.
CIPD research has clearly identified the benefits of flexible working arrangements for employers and employees: from improved wellbeing and work–life balance to greater productivity. Take a look at the benefits of flexible working for employers and employees.
The CIPD’s Flex From 1st campaign is encouraging employers to support flexible working for all and the right to request flexible working from day-one of employment. And we’re calling for a change to UK law to make flexible working requests a day-one right for all employees. At present, UK law states that employees can only request to work flexibly after 26 weeks of employment, with a limit of one request per 12-months. This needs to change.
