Flexible working - giving flexibility over where, when and the hours people work - is increasingly in demand, but the number of quality flexible jobs falls well short of that demand. There is an opportunity for employers to do more to provide flexibility for the benefit of all employees and organisations.
This factsheet outlines different types of flexible working arrangements, including part-time and compressed hours, remote working and job-shares. It looks at the potential benefits of flexible working, both direct and indirect. It offers the UK legal perspective and some ideas on how flexible working can be implemented, how common barriers can be overcome, and how people professionals can support staff opting for more flexible working arrangements.
Explore our viewpoint on flexible working uptake in more detail, along with actions for government and recommendations for employers.
You can find more information on navigating flexible working in our people manager guide on flexible working and our guidance for people professionals.
This factsheet was last updated by Claire McCartney: Senior Policy Adviser, Resourcing and Inclusion, CIPD
Claire leads our policy work on flexible and new ways of working and resourcing and talent management. She also works in the area of equality, diversity and inclusion and leads policy work on carers, working parents and compassionate bereavement support.
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This guide has been developed for people professionals who want to maximise the benefits of flexible working within their organisations, incorporating flexibility into people plans, strategy, and their employee value proposition.
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