Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the way we work has changed for many people, with some working part-time in the office and part-time from home. According to a report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), this “hybrid working” model is much more common for workers with a degree-level education. In fact, the ONS found that these workers are 10 times more likely to have the option to work in a hybrid way compared to those with no formal qualifications. This difference in work flexibility highlights a growing divide across different groups in society.

A New Way of Working – But Not for Everyone

Hybrid working became popular during the pandemic as a way to keep people safe from Covid-19. Nearly five years later, the ONS report says that hybrid working appears to be a lasting change for certain groups of workers. People who have a college or university degree, those over 30, and parents are more likely to have this flexible working option. However, workers in roles that require physical presence, like retail, cleaning, and leisure jobs, rarely have the opportunity to work from home. This difference shows that some people may benefit more from the flexible working trend than others, especially those in professional and managerial roles.

Education Levels Make a Big Difference

The ONS study reveals that education level plays a huge role in determining whether a person can work in a hybrid manner. Workers with a degree-level education are far more likely to work from home at least part-time than those without qualifications. This suggests that higher education not only affects job options and pay but also gives people access to more flexibility in their working lives. It also means that those without a college degree may miss out on the benefits of hybrid working, like saving on travel time and balancing home and work life more easily.

Age, Job Type, and Family Status Influence Hybrid Working Options

In addition to education level, factors like age, job type, and family responsibilities also influence who can work in a hybrid way. The ONS found that workers over the age of 30, managers, and professionals are the groups most likely to have hybrid working arrangements. The report notes that while almost half of people in senior managerial roles work in a hybrid way, only 3% of people working in roles such as retail, cleaning services, and leisure jobs have the same option. This highlights that hybrid working is more common among those in high-level positions, who often have more control over their schedules.

Parents are also more likely to have hybrid working options, possibly due to the flexibility it provides for managing family responsibilities. For many parents, the ability to work from home for part of the week can help them balance their professional and personal lives. However, those in less flexible jobs may not have this option, making it harder for them to manage both work and family responsibilities.

How the Pandemic Changed Work Patterns

Before the pandemic, working from home was not as common, especially for jobs that did not require a computer or desk work. But as the Covid-19 lockdowns forced people to work from home, many companies discovered that remote work could be productive and beneficial for both employers and employees. Now, as of autumn 2024, over a quarter of working adults in Great Britain (about 28%) have hybrid work arrangements. This shift in working habits has led to what the ONS calls a “new normal,” where many people split their work time between the office and home.

The report also mentions that the trend of working entirely from home has decreased since 2021. Instead, hybrid working has become a more popular option, as it allows people to benefit from both office and home environments. For example, some tasks may be easier to complete in a quiet home setting, while others benefit from in-person collaboration in the office.

Benefits of Hybrid Working

For those who can work in a hybrid way, the ONS highlights several benefits. Workers with a flexible schedule save an average of 56 minutes each day on commuting, giving them more time for other activities. On average, hybrid workers spend 24 minutes more on sleep or relaxation and 15 extra minutes on exercise, sports, or other well-being activities. This improved work-life balance can make workers happier and more productive, as they can dedicate more time to taking care of themselves and their families.

The government has recognized the value of flexible working arrangements and, in response, has introduced changes to protect workers’ rights. These changes aim to make flexible working the default option wherever possible, providing more people with the chance to benefit from hybrid working. This package of changes also includes a ban on exploitative zero-hour contracts, which can be unpredictable and challenging for workers.

What This Means for the Future

The ONS report raises important questions about the future of work in the UK. While hybrid working offers clear advantages, not everyone has access to it. The report suggests that the divide between workers who have the option to work in a hybrid way and those who do not could continue to grow. People in jobs that do not require a degree or higher qualifications are less likely to experience the flexibility and benefits that hybrid working can provide.

For society, this means there may be a widening gap in how people experience their working lives. Those with education and qualifications may enjoy more work-life balance, time for personal well-being, and control over their schedules. In contrast, those without these opportunities may face more rigid work routines and fewer options for flexibility.