Hybrid working is a form of flexible working where an employee works between the workplace and remotely in other locations. Since the coronavirus pandemic, working from home is now the most common form of hybrid working.
Hybrid working can be structured as:
- Occasionally based in the office.
- Set days based in the office.
- Office-based working, with the option of remote working when required.
- Remote working with the option of visiting the office when required.
Unfortunately, hybrid working is not an option for all – those working in industries such as retail, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics, or healthcare are unlikely to be able to undertake hybrid working, or any form of flexible working for that matter due to the nature of the job.
The below guidance outlines the benefits of hybrid working, find out about hybrid working policy, and how to make a flexible working request to your employer.
Hybrid working offers a good balance between home working and office-based working. This can include:
- Increased job satisfaction.
- Increased mobility.
- Improved wellbeing.
- Saving on money e.g., travel costs or lunches.
- Being more productive.
- Increased flexibility.
- Improved work-life balance.
Employers are not legally required to have a hybrid working policy in place, however, many do offer hybrid working. You should find out if your employer has a relevant policy on hybrid working or working from home. This will explain how the process works at your workplace.
If you cannot find a relevant policy, you should speak to your HR department or employer.
You can make a flexible working request if your employer doesn’t have a hybrid working policy in place for all employees.
You can find out more about your rights when making a flexible working request by downloading our flexible working guide here.
When making a flexible working request, make sure you highlight the benefits to your employer as well as your colleagues for consideration. Your employer may arrange to meet with you to discuss your request further.
If you are disabled, you can request hybrid working as a ‘reasonable adjustment’. You can find out more about making a reasonable adjustment request here.
If you need help or advice, please contact us at help@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
