According to Capita’s ‘The State of IT– The Employee Verdict’ report, less than a third of UK workers are allowed to work remotely. Additionally, the report reveals that 71% of workers would like the option to work remotely in order to support a better work-life balance, reduce transportation costs and carbon footprint.

The report found that after salary and holiday entitlement, flexible and remote work options are the biggest factors in employee satisfaction.

“In the long run, an inability to offer remote, flexible working could leave an organisation watching some of its best employees heading for the exit,” said Joe Hemming, executive officer, Capita IT & Networks. “At a time when employee retention and productivity is front of mind for many organisations, it is imperative that they have the policies in place that encourage rather than hinder flexible working practices.”

Furthermore, the report finds that offering a solid IT experience is key to ensuring reliable remote working. Still, many organizations are wary of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) due to unprotected business and customer data. About 52% of UK workers said they have the option to use their own device, but only 14% are encouraged to do so.

Around 92% of workers believe it is their employer’s responsibility to ensure IT security when working remotely.