The rise of flexible working

According to Statista ‘’In 2024, around 4.23 million employees in the United Kingdom had employment contracts that allowed for flexible working hours, making it the most common flexible working practice in that year.’’ (UK flexible working contracts by type 2024 | Statista)

Flexible working entails an adapted/changed working pattern, to suit individual needs. Flexible working arrangements are vital to achieving a good work-life balance, especially for professionals trying to manage personal commitments (some of which can be caring responsibilities or working while accommodating a long-term illness, combining work with studying or upskilling) as well as professional goals.

REC’s findings suggest that more than half of temp agency workers believe that this type of work provides a greater work-life balance. The UK’s temporary labour market comprises a million temporary workers each day and almost ‘eight in 10 temp agency workers (79%) say their work provides an important need for flexibility.’ (The REC)

In a joint letter between ALP (Association of Labour Providers), APSCo, REC and TEAM to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, industry leaders urge the government to protect workers and enable them to access flexible work options (both temporary and contract). The ability to adapt and thrive in various environments is becoming a valuable asset in our fast-paced society. 

This campaign highlights the benefits of supporting temporary agency work. By fostering a more adaptable and resilient workforce, we're paving the way for a future where work-life balance and professional development go hand in hand, breaking down barriers and offering opportunities to those who may have been previously excluded. 

Temporary work is not only an essential entry point into the labour market for many professionals, but also a growth enabler, empowering businesses to access scarce talent and emerging skills as and when they need it. This is turn, allows for greater flexibility, facilitating a good response to fluctuating demands, seasonal trends and unexpected challenges. This also builds economic resilience by enabling businesses to continue operations during periods of uncertainty.

What is more, whilst the narrative around flexible work often centres on economic efficiency and corporate gain, we need to focus more on the profound social value this shift brings. As we move away from the traditional 9-to-5 grind, we're seeing a surge in job satisfaction and a reduction in stress and burnout. By fostering a more adaptable and resilient workforce, we're paving the way for a future where work-life balance and professional development go hand in hand, breaking down barriers and offering opportunities to those who may have been previously excluded. 

At Ntrinsic, believe that sustainable practices across all aspects of our work is essential to success. As such, we wholeheartedly support flexible working both within Ntrinsic by ensuring that our teams have the freedom to work in ways that best suit their needs and goals. For our clients, this translates to more dynamic and responsive services, fostering stronger, more resilient business relationships.