In a comprehensive two-year study conducted by Timewise and the Institute for Employment Studies, with funding from Impact on Urban Health, the effects of increased flexibility on frontline and site-based roles were meticulously analysed. This research project, named Flex For All, aimed to explore how providing more input and control over working patterns could influence the health, wellbeing, work-life balance, and job satisfaction of employees.
Key statistics from the study include:
- At the start of the project, 51% of participants reported that their working arrangements supported a good level of personal health and wellbeing. This figure rose to 82% by the end of the trial.
- The percentage of respondents who believed they had a good work-life balance increased from 52% to 78% after the introduction of more flexible working arrangements.
- Job satisfaction improved for 83% of employees by the end of the trial, attributed to the new working patterns.
- 84% of participants indicated that their new working arrangement was central to how they wanted to work in the future.
- 81% supported an organization-wide roll-out of these changes.
- 76% of beneficiaries agreed that their new working arrangements made them want to stay with their current employer for longer.
- 28% of beneficiaries at Wickes reported taking less sick leave due to increased flexibility.
- Initially, 28% had taken sick leave in the prior three months because of a lack of flexible or agile working options.
- 83% of employees whose working arrangements changed agreed that the shift helped them work more productively, as they could better plan their work around personal priorities.
The findings show that there can be the significant benefits of flexible working arrangements for both employees and employers. Improved health and wellbeing, enhanced job satisfaction, and better work-life balance are pivotal for maintaining a motivated and productive workforce. Moreover, the increase in employee retention and reduction in sickness absence highlight the practical advantages of implementing flexible working patterns.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP
If you need help navigating the recent changes in employment law regarding flexible working and predictable work conditions in your workplace, our expert team can assist you. Contact us on 0844 324 5840 or get in touch with us here.
Webinar:
You can also watch our ‘New Rules on Flexible Working and Predictable Terms & Conditions’ webinar on demand which discusses:
1. The changes with flexible working rights
2. New laws that allow employees to ask for more predictable terms and conditions of employment
3. How flexible working and providing consistent and stable working arrangements can be a positive tool for recruitment and staff retention.
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