Conference call company Powwownow is behind the scheme, which believes there are numerous economical benefits of flexible working. The goal of the programme is to “help improve business results by changing how people work”.

Those involved are actively out to promote the growing business trend, so that other enterprises will follow suit and recognise the flexible movement that’s taking place.

The initiative found that rather than being “stuck” in an office working 9-5, 62 per cent of British workers would be more productive if they could spend time elsewhere. It added 70 per cent believe relationships with co-workers would be improved with the flexible working option.

Jason Downes, MD of Powwownow, said: “It is clear that flexible working has a lot to offer to both employers and employees. Having the right work-life balance has become a crucial requirement of a happy workforce and the office-based 9-5 routine is old, outdated and unproductive.”

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Supporting Downes’ comments, it was found in May that 7.5m UK workers want to swap a pay rise for home working.

With Monday 25 July marking the first day of the UK school summer holidays, the Smarter Working Initiative wants businesses to give all staff the chance to work flexibly. The idea is that hours and location can be altered, but the contracted time and work must still be completed – just not in the office.

“If businesses want to attract and retain top talent, they need to understand that flexible working is a highly important element for doing so and that with the technology available, it is extremely easy to implement,” Downes continued.

“The government has recognised this by changing the law, it’s time for more business leaders to recognise its benefits too.”

By Zen Terrelonge

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