Hybrid working could bring over 3.8 million into employment

An increase in hybrid working could bring nearly four million people ‘locked out’ from work such as parents, carers, and disabled people into the workforce, according to a new report.

The research from Virgin Media O2 Business and the Centre for Economics and Business Research found that 45% of Brits who are currently out of work would be able to start working if they could do so remotely.

Unemployed carers would be among the main beneficiaries with more than half (52%) more inclined to work remotely, along with parents (49%) and disabled people (40%) whose circumstances mean they’re locked out from fully-office or site-based work.

On average, hybrid working would enable part-time workers to work 5.1 more hours each week, with increases reported for disabled people (5 hours), parents (5.3 hours) and carers (6.8 hours).

Nina Skero, chief executive, Cebr, said: “Covid-19 had serious economic, societal and emotional impacts. But it’s clear that technology and new ways of working provide a pathway to recovery – one that won’t just take us back to where we were, but which could make things significantly better than before.

“By continuing to digitise and embrace hybrid working models, businesses and public sector organisations can fundamentally transform the economy – unlocking a massive GDP uplift, boosting productivity and building a more inclusive society.”

This research comes ahead of new Government proposals on flexible working which are expected to give employees the right to request flexible working arrangements as soon as they start a job.