Remote and hybrid work can boost employment, says UK parliament report

"The report was published days after figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that UK unemployment had risen to 5% in the three months to September. As the job market weakens, UK working-pattern data indicates that parents, carers, and people with disabilities could particularly benefit from more flexible conditions. "I gave up my job of 14 years because childcare was too expensive," said one respondent in a survey cited by the report."

"The report acknowledged that large numbers of roles still have to be carried out in person, with significant logistical differences between sectors and locations. Professionals, university graduates, and people living in London are far more likely to work flexibly. Around 55% of employees in office-based roles work in a hybrid pattern, more than twice the rate seen across the wider workforce."

Remote working options could boost employment and help retain staff by enabling people who otherwise cannot work to re-enter the labour force. Flexible arrangements can allow parents and carers to balance domestic and professional responsibilities more effectively. Flexible working can provide new opportunities for people with disabilities and align with government priorities on disability employment. Officials recorded UK unemployment rising to 5% in the three months to September. Professionals, university graduates, and London residents are far more likely to work flexibly; around 55% of office-based employees work a hybrid pattern, more than twice the wider workforce rate. Many roles still require in-person attendance and vary by sector and location.

Read at euronews