Flexible working

    Istock 1932082801 Credit Dejan Marjanovic 600 Min

    Rethinking homes as centres of economic activity (amongst other things)

    The decentralisation of work away from fixed workplaces, the rise of AI and demographic changes are creating new opportunities for people to carry out ‘hands-on’ work in the home, such as production of fashion, textiles, food and drink, and delivery of health services and therapies. However, our existing housing stock is not designed to accommodate such functions, so it’s essential that future town planning creates homes that support different kinds of enterprise, both to support business success and the wellbeing of these new home-based workers.

    By Andy Lake, Flexibility.co.uk on 08 October 2026

    Istock 1254063741 Credit Fizkes 600 Min

    Employers must meet staff to discuss flexible working requests, says first secretary of state

    Bosses must meet with employees who request flexible working and explain their reasons for any refusals, said Louise Haigh, first secretary of state, in a speech to the Trades Union Congress (TUC) in Brighton on 15 September.

    By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 01 October 2026

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    UK employers underestimating burnout as 15-point wellbeing perception gap emerges

    A widening disconnect between UK business leaders and their employees is threatening workforce health and retention, according to a study published by employee benefits platform, Epassi.

    By Belinda Liversedge on 22 July 2026

    Tess Headshot

    Flexible working: the right idea, but the wrong remedy

    The Government’s consultation on new flexible working rights closed last month – providing a clearer picture of the mechanism for the Labour Government’s manifesto commitment to deliver flexible working ‘by default’.

    By Tess Lanning, director of programmes, Timewise on 18 May 2026

    Tess Headshot

    The hybrid working playbook: what to do, what to avoid, and why evidence matters

    Research shows hybrid working delivers measurable gains in workforce inclusion, satisfaction and retention, but it’s crucial employers embed flexible working arrangements in ways that support performance, fairness and sustainable organisational culture.

    By Tess Lanning, director of programmes, Timewise on 05 May 2026

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    Beyond the Bell: Can flexible working save the teaching profession?

    As the government’s flagship flexible working in schools programme nears its conclusion, we investigate whether it’s a practical solution to schools’ retention and stress crisis.

    By Belinda Liversedge on 13 April 2026

    Home worker with neck pain iStock Ridofranz

    HSE zeroes in on home worker safety amid calls for ‘more guidance’

    HSE is reminding employers that protecting the health and safety of their hybrid and home workers is a “legal duty, not optional guidance.”

    By Belinda Liversedge on 10 March 2026

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    Ramadan: what employers should know about supporting their workforce

    As Ramadan begins this week, UNISON has reminded employers to think about reasonable adjustments for their Muslim workforce’s religious observance such as fasting, prayers, and flexible schedules.

    By Belinda Liversedge on 18 February 2026

    Home Working Istock 1208855996 Credit Fizkes (1)

    Hybrid working the “new normal” for more than 1 in 4 workers

    Hybrid working, which involves splitting time between the home and office, has become the "new normal" for more than one in four workers, official figures show.

    By Belinda Liversedge on 18 June 2025

    Kate F High Res

    Rethinking workplace wellbeing for a new era

    Today’s workers increasingly value the flexibility to pick the most suitable working model for their needs – whether this be hybrid, fully remote or site-based. However, new BSI research shows a more important consideration is working for an organisation that genuinely prioritises employee wellbeing, offers development opportunities and encourages staff autonomy.

    By Kate Field, BSI on 16 June 2025

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