Good Work for All: Security and structure

Good Work For All: Security and Structure Icon

More than 1 in 5 UK workers face precarious employment conditions that mean they could lose their work suddenly. While insecure and unpredictable contracts suit some workers, 12% of all part-time UK workers want more hours and 28% of those on temporary contracts would prefer a permanent contract but have been unable to find permanent work.

“Having a permanent contract is very important to me. I’ve experienced both, and a temporary contract means I have a lot of worry about what will happen when the job ends, having to look out for other jobs. It’s difficult to plan for the future – where I’m going to live, whether I can afford to visit my family this year.”
Business in the Community focus group participant

When work is insecure, unpredictable and isolating, employees are likely to be less engaged. They may be working multiple jobs or looking for alternative employment. Flexible work is good work when it considers the structure and content of roles and ensures flexibility goes both ways, benefitting both the individual and the business.

Improving the structure and content of low-paid roles can increase productivity and job satisfaction, as well as better meet changing business needs.

Find out how retailer Hobbs has worked with the Living Wage Foundation to tackle underemployment and increase functional flexibility for employees >>