UK workers need to work more flexible hours, experts say
Achieving a better work/life balance should be on every British worker’s new year resolutions list, according to workspace experts The Instant Group.
The HSE recently reported that 39% of all work related illnesses in 2013-14 were caused by work stress, depression or anxiety.
According to The Instant Group spokeswoman Helen Taylor, “practising good time management and ensuring you take time away from work to rest and re-energise” are key things that workers need to do to combat this statistic.
“We can often get caught up in low priority “easy” tasks and using our best hours for the most important tasks does help.
“ If you are constantly interrupted at work, flexible working, such as working from home, may also be an option for you and your employer as it allows for quiet time to really get things done.
UK legislation recently extended the right for all workers to request flexible working hours. This allows employees to request schedule adjustments based on their individual needs.
The Instant Group claimed: “This could allow them to work from home part time, stagger their hours to avoid rush hour traffic, or work remotely.”
Taylor added: “Taking time away from work is just as essential as time management because it keeps you sharp. No one can go at full speed indefinitely.
“Taking adequate stretches of leave and the odd long weekend is essential to staying energised and focused.”