More than one million employees in the UK quit their jobs last year because flexible working was unavailable, according to new research from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
The findings highlight growing tensions between employers pushing staff to return to offices and workers prioritising flexibility.
Key findings from the CIPD’s survey of over 7,000 people include:
- 53% of employees feel pressured to spend more time in the workplace
- 14% of employers plan to increase mandatory office days
- 51% of organisations already require a minimum number of in-office days, typically three per week
Despite most employers (91%) offering some form of flexible working, the CIPD warns that rigid return-to-office mandates risk undermining staff morale, retention and recruitment, particularly among younger workers.
Employers should take care when requiring staff to return to the workplace. In some cases, issues may arise in relation to discrimination and changes to contractual terms that need to be addressed.
If your organisation is navigating return-to-work arrangements, our employment specialists can provide clear guidance to help you manage legal obligations while supporting both your business and employees. Please contact our team on 02920 853731 or email tcms@thomas-carroll.co.uk.
