Older Workers Being Left Out Of Flexible Work Discussions In The U.K.

A new survey reveals younger Millennial and Gen Z workers in the U.K. are more engaged in conversations with managers about flexible work than older workers.

Younger Millennial and Gen Z workers across the U.K. are having more of a say than older demographics when it comes to providing input on flexible work environments.

A recent survey published by Phoenix Insights reveals over half (54%) of 18- to 34-year-olds say their managers have held conversations about flexible work arrangements with them. Only 24% of workers ages 55 and older reported the same.

The study analyzed the portions of age demographics that reported having these conversations with managers before and after the right to request flexible working on day one of employment became law in April 2024.

The survey found that workers among the Gen X and Baby Boomer generations are far less likely to engage in these kinds of discussions, despite the increasing demand for greater flexibility across all age groups.

Prior to the law’s implementation, 26% of over-55-year-olds reportedly held these related discussions with their managers — revealing a minor decline after the right to request flexible work was enacted.

The data suggest that while flexible working is a high priority for most (73%) of workers 55 and older, it is the younger generations who are more proactive or successful in pushing managers to address flexible arrangements.

Younger generations may be more likely to press employers on these issues because they have grown up alongside fast changes in digital technology, with Gen Z often being labeled as “digital natives.”

Younger demographics in the U.K. also tend to prioritize a work-life balance and value greater flexibility as a key driver in job satisfaction, which could be adding to their influence on flexible work environments across the nation.

“The right to request flexible working is a positive step, but it’s not enough on its own,” Sara Thompson, Chief People Officer at Phoenix Group said. “Employers need to go further to ensure that workers, especially older ones, understand their rights and feel empowered to discuss flexibility.”

The data show there is a gap in engagement impacting older workers, who could potentially benefit the most from flexible working options. The survey found 60% of workers ages 35-54 and 73% of workers ages 55 and older cite flexible hours as a priority.

The high demand shows that employers can do more to address the divide and ensure their flexible opportunities are accessible to the entire workforce across all age groups.