How Flexible working is transforming the UK Workplace
The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations 2023, which came into force on 6th April 2023, marks a significant shift in the UK’s approach to flexible working. This reform aimed to provide greater flexibility and support for employees seeking a better work-life balance.
The Act, among other aspects, doubled the number of requests an employee is able to make, putting the onus on the employer to justify why a request should be turned down, and requires firms to make a meaningful consultation with employees regarding flexible working. The aim to change the culture in British companies.
Since the introduction of this regulation, there has been a notable increase in the number of firms offering flexible working arrangements. A recent survey by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) revealed that a third more companies are now providing flexible working options, with over 60% proactively offering hybrid working models.
This shift is particularly beneficial for female employees, who have shown the highest growth in uptake of flexible working. This trend may lead to increased participation rates of women in the labour force, addressing long-standing gender disparities in the workplace.
Merve Ozcan from Workforce Wisdom commented on this trend, stating, “We are seeing a lot of companies wishing to make their workplace more attractive, so they are embracing flextime and hybrid working. They are coming to us to provide the technology to ensure Hybrid working and Flexitime Tracking policies work successfully for the business and the employees.”
The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations 2023 represents a significant step forward in making the workplace more adaptable and inclusive. By fostering a culture of flexibility, these changes not only enhance employee satisfaction but also help businesses attract and retain top talent. As more companies adopt these practices, the UK workforce stands to benefit from a more balanced and equitable working environment.
