ALMOST a third of office workers in Scotland have no access to “new normal” hybrid working, according to experts on flexibility at work.

A survey for the government-backed organisation Flexibility Works, which promotes flexible working, found that 29 per cent of office workers were compelled to work five days a week.

This is despite post-pandemic trends towards a hybrid approach which has seen 16 per cent asked to attend the office weekly, and 22 per cent given “complete freedom” on where to work.

Flexibility Works’ Lisa Gallagher said: “Our research shows hybrid working is the new normal in Scotland.

“But we were surprised that for three in 10 it just wasn’t an option.

“Our evidence shows hybrid — implemented well — is having a positive impact.” 

She urged reluctant employers to reconsider the model.

STUC general secretary Roz Foyer commented: “The STUC is adamant that any improvements on work/life balance should, first and foremost, benefit the workers.

“Flexibility does not equate to exploitation.

“We would encourage all members to collectivise within their unions to ensure any changes to their terms and conditions are achieved through consultation, negotiation and ultimately implemented through the expressed wishes of the workers themselves.”