One year after the UK’s Flexible Working Act, many workers still face barriers to flexible work arrangements, according to a study by Phoenix Group.  

The research highlights that almost one in three or 28% workers who requested flexible working had their requests denied due to employer concerns about productivity.  

This indicates ongoing challenges despite the law’s intent to facilitate flexible working from day one. 

The study reveals that 68% of workers believe they would be more efficient with flexible working, having control over their hours and work location.  

However, only 21% of workers successfully applied for flexible working in the past year, while an equal percentage had their requests denied.  

This suggests a disconnect between worker aspirations and employer practices. 

Phoenix Group chief people officer Sara Thompson said: “The introduction of the Flexible Working Act is an important tool to help workers balance their jobs with other responsibilities and interests outside of work. It is therefore disappointing that many are facing barriers with some employers worried about how flexibility could impact on a worker’s productivity.” 

Phoenix Insights’ research shows that 62% of workers desire flexibility in their working hours, and 43% want flexibility in their work location.  

Despite these preferences, many requests are denied due to employers’ disbelief in flexibility (27%), business needs (24%), and a lack of resources (21%).  

These findings underline the gap between worker expectations and employer provisions. 

Since the law’s enactment, most workers have not altered their working arrangements.  

Only 15% have made changes, with 78% continuing under existing conditions.  

Among those who adapted, the most common change was working full-time with remote options, with men (65%) more likely than women (45%) to make this adjustment. 

Thompson added: “As the demand for flexibility grows, it is in employers’ best interests to engage proactively with their workforce and, where possible, to enable their workers to work in a flexible way, alongside managing business needs.” 

Despite the Flexible Working Act’s provisions, awareness remains a significant issue.  

More than half of workers (55%) are unaware of their entitlements under the Act, and more than one-third (36%) report that their employer or manager has never mentioned it.  

Thompson concluded: “Those businesses that fail to embrace flexible working risk losing talent, particularly among parents, carers, and older workers who can benefit most from greater flexibility. At Phoenix, we have fostered an environment where flexible working is the norm.  

“Through facilitating more and better discussions, employers can tap into the potential of a diverse workforce, with flexibility having a positive impact on colleague engagement and also, ultimately helping people stay in employment for as long as they want and need while saving for their futures.”