Flexible working (working more, less, or differently) is the number one workplace factor that over 50s themselves say would help them be in better work for longer. To support work-life balance, caring or health needs, or just to make work more sustainable.
While people of all ages want flexible working, not everyone feels they have access to it. One quarter (24%) of over 50s don’t have a good understanding of the different flexible working options in their organisation. Nearly a third of over 50s don’t realise they have the right to request flexible working and almost a quarter aren’t comfortable asking
Partnering with flexible working experts Timewise, we have completed an 18-month project to pilot, test and learn how to make practical changes to support better flexible working for over 50s. Our toolkit outlines practical steps to develop a business case, assess current processes, and design new ones.
A line manager taking part in the pilot highlighted the benefit to the business of supporting over 50s workers:
“Their experience, acumen, networks, level of professionalism, technical knowledge and mature thinking – it’s too valuable to risk losing. We need to find ways that help older staff manage their personal and work commitments.”