What is flexible working?

Flexible work is most commonly defined by what it is not – not the 9 to 5, central office arrangement.

On this page:

The absence of a clear definition is a barrier to broader adoption.

Ongoing flexible working arrangements alter HOW, WHEN or WHERE work is conducted, or a combination of the three. Common types of flexible work are included below:

HOW: Job-sharing, Purchased Leave, Phased Retirement, Unplanned Leave, Flexible Careers - WHEN: Flexible Hours of Work, Part-Time Work, Compressed Working Weeks, Split Shifts, Time in Lieu, Annualised Hours - WHERE: Working from Home, Teleworking

Check out the flexible work options page for more information. 

The Your questions answered resource has answers to many commonly asked questions.

Workplace flexibility is best when it meets the needs of both employees and the business. Research suggests that flexible work and a flexible mindset are essential elements of a high performing work culture. The case for flexible work page has more information on this.

Workplace flexibility

Use workplace flexibility to support diverse and innovative workforces.
Maturity assessment

Understanding the context and maturity of your business is a crucial first step in integrating flexible working arrangements.
A policy approach

A formal policy on flexible work explicitly states the intent and practices of an organisation.
Guidance for managers

Managers are critical enablers of workforce flexibility, serving as the bridge between policy and practice.
Additional Resources

Apps that support flexible working.