Pandemic-driven flexible working is here to stay

The following words were written by Flexibility Works - you can read their blog here: Pandemic-driven flexible working is here to stay - Flexibility Works

The rise in flexible working prompted by the pandemic is here to stay in Scotland, according to our new research published five years on from the first UK Covid lockdown.

We’ve been tracking flexible working levels in Scotland since the pandemic, and our latest data shows flexible working has stabilised with 67% of Scottish workers saying they use some form of flexible working in their role, exactly the same number as last year, and up from 46% pre-pandemic.

Hybrid isn’t waning

Our research also shows that hybrid and home working, which is one form of flexible working, remains popular with 77% of office or desk-based workers able to work hybrid and remotely.

Our report, called Flex for Life 2025, is based on data from more than 1,000 Scottish workers 250 employers and 200 unemployed adults looking for work, and is part-funded by the Scottish Government.

Good for business

The new findings show more than seven in ten (72%) Scottish employers think flexible working is good for their business overall, and 95% of employers think flexible working in their own organisation will stay the same, or increase, over the next 12 months.

Nikki Slowey, our co-founder and director, said: “Our data shows flexible working is well-used, well-liked and well-established in Scotland, and the increase in flexible working brought about by the pandemic is here to stay.

“The demand for flexibility from workers is huge, with 85% already working flexibly or wanting to. Crucially, most employers are generally very positive about flexible working too, and recognise the benefits it brings, such as improved recruitment and retention, reduced sickness and absence and better wellbeing for people.

“A minority of employers say they face practical challenges, and some have put off dealing with these while they wait and see whether pandemic-driven flexibility is only temporary.

“Our data shows greater flexible working is very much a permanent fixture. We’re encouraging all employers to embrace the way we work now, to be intentional and proactive in their approach to flexible working, and to make evidence-based, data-driven decisions on what works best for their people, their organisation and their customers.”

Scottish Government support

Employment Minister Tom Arthur said: “This report shows the demand for flexible working has not waned since the pandemic, and is helping to improve employee wellbeing and boost business growth.

“To support more people enter, remain and progress in the workplace the Scottish Government has provided more than £1 million for employers to adopt flexible working practices since 2020.”

Rosie Berridge, Founder of accountancy firm, Accountability Edinburgh, offers all members of staff the chance to work from home, as well as lots of flexibility on their hours.

She said: “When I started the business, I had three young children and I was caring for my mother. I was still really ambitious but I couldn’t physically manage full time hours and I needed to work flexibly around my caring commitments. I think that experience means I can spot when someone is talented and driven, regardless of how many hours they want to work, or where they want to work. We have 16 members of staff now, and everyone is trusted to work their hours when and where suits them and our clients best.

“From a business perspective, our staff are incredibly loyal and this benefits clients because we’ve built up knowledge and strong relationships over time. When we do need to recruit, we don’t spend much advertising because our flexibility attracts lots of good quality candidates too.”

Sarah Green, a Senior Bookkeeper for Accountability Edinburgh, works part time (2.5 days work across 4 days) and mostly from home, so she can also support her family.

She said: “I usually work my hours over four short days, which gives me the stimulation of working and means I can respond quickly to client queries but also be around for my children. Working from home saves me nearly two hours a day in travel time on the bus. It just makes sense to use that time better. And I’m conscious it’s much better for the environment too.

“My children are older now and while the demands on my time are different from when they were toddlers, when they do need me it’s very hands-on and usually for bigger, more emotional matters. All my children have additional support needs too, so it’s important for us as a family that I’m on hand when they need me.”

Business benefits

The top five business benefits of flexible working, cited by Scottish employers are: