Nearly two thirds of people ‘in working-class occupations’ are unable to access flexible working.
This was discovered by a survey published by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) which found that 64 per cent of those in working occupations find that flexible working is unavailable to them.
More than half (58 per cent) of the UK workforce also say flexible working is unattainable. With under a third (28 per cent) stating their desire for a more flexible role is one of the main reasons they might look for a new job.
In addition, 30 per cent of request for flexible working is being turned down from employers.
The TUC today (2nd September 2019) joined the Flex for All campaign, which has launched a petition to change the law that flexible working is open to all workers from day one when they start a job. As well as all employers being required to advertise all jobs on that basis.
The TUC is also joining the Pregnant then Screwed, Fawcett Society, Mother Pukka, the Young Women’s Trust and the Fatherhood Institute campaigns.
Frances O’Grady, general secretary of TUC said:
Flexible working should be a day one right that’s available to everyone.
But under current law bosses have free rein to turn down requests.
It’s not right that millions are struggling to balance their work and home lives. Ministers must change the law so that people can work flexibly – regardless of what type of contract they are on.
Allowing people more flexibility in how and when they do their work makes them happier and more productive.
This survey was carried out by GQR, an opinion, research and strategic consulting company on behalf of the TUC. It asked 2,700 people via an online survey of over 16-year-olds between 2-6th July 2019.
On the 27th August HRreview reported on the fact that 58 per cent of UK employees sees the future the most popular style of working to be flexible.
Darius is the editor of HRreview. He has previously worked as a finance reporter for the Daily Express. He studied his journalism masters at Press Association Training and graduated from the University of York with a degree in History.