Half of the UK workforce would like to work more flexibly, according to a new report from the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC). A study called Working Outside the Box reveals an enormous waste of talent throughout the workforce as 6.5 million people contend they could use their skills more effectively if more flexible working was available.
The EOC’s findings show that this “skills drain” affects almost as many men as women, and more non-parents than parents. The report warns that rigid models of work drive highly qualified workers into jobs below their skill level. It says one in eight graduate women work in low-level jobs while the proportion of graduates in high level jobs is falling, despite continuing graduate skill shortages.
It says this waste of skills and experience undermines the country’s goals to create a highly skilled workforce. It claims outdated workplace cultures are further damaging the economy by increasing pressure on an over-stretched transport system. Overcrowded rush-hour trains and motorways are causing misery for commuters and wasting time for employers.
“Failing to rethink the way we’ve traditionally organised work is a chronic waste of talent and investment in education,” says EOC Chair Jenny Watson.