This report outlines general trends in part-time working in the UK and internationally. It also considers the potential benefits of part-time working, and policies/strategies that have supported its development.
General trends in part-time working include:
- Globalisation and associated changes in the organisation of production has been driving the need for more flexible arrangements, including part-time work.
- In most developed countries there is a trend towards more part-time workers.
- Women continue to make up the bulk of part-time workers, as a result of their continued role as primary carers.
- Part-time working is prevalent among young people just entering the job market, and older people moving towards semi-retirement and retirement.
- Although there are exceptions, it is hard to gauge the level and impact of part-time working in developing countries, due to lack of data and the significant proportion of the workforce in informal employment.
In addition to providing more people with jobs, there is evidence of multiple other benefits to part-time working both for individuals and companies (and, by implication, for society at large). These include:
- Employees report a better work-life balance, improved health outcomes and better working conditions.
- Part-time employment allows employers to better respond to market requirements and the prevailing economy. Flexible arrangements can result in efficiency gains for companies.
- Organisations with flexible arrangements are more attractive to employees.
- Part-time and flexible working can promote sustainability and a robust economy.
At the same time, however, some drawbacks to part-time working have been identified, particularly for women. These include poor career progression and training opportunities, lower wages relative to full-time counterparts, and weaker job security.
Nevertheless, some countries, including the UK, have recognised the advantages of promoting part-time working and have put policies in place to encourage and support it. These include international and regional laws and policies; national laws; and governmental initiatives.
