The Hattie

The Office of National Statistics published a report in November 2024 examining the types of workers most likely to have a hybrid working pattern. Previous research by the ONS showed that over a quarter of working adults in the UK are now hybrid working. Their latest research sought to explore who is more likely to hybrid work and why the hybrid model remains popular almost five years after the Covid pandemic. The report has revealed several interesting trends:

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1. Hybrid workers are more likely to be over 30 years old: Research found 29% of workers aged 30+ were hybrid working versus 19% of 19-29 year olds. ONS suggests over 30s are more likely to be parents and in managerial positions, both of which increase the likelihood of someone being a hybrid worker. The report also suggests younger workers are more often employed in hospitality or retail; industries where hybrid working is rare.
   
2. Hybrid workers are usually in higher income occupations: The ONS has found that managers, directors and senior officials are the most likely occupation types to hybrid work. Reports found 45% of workers in these senior roles adopt hybrid working compared with 27% of all workers on average. Workers in elementary occupations such as retail and cleaning, and care and leisure occupations, are the least likely to be hybrid workers. 
   
3. Hybrid workers are often more highly educated: Workers with a degree are ten times more likely to hybrid work than those with no qualifications according to the ONS findings. They suggest this is because more qualified workers have better access to the more senior roles mentioned above. 
   
4. IT and communication roles are most likely to be hybrid working: 49% of workers in IT or communication roles have adopted hybrid working. This is closely followed by those in ‘professional, scientific and technical activities,’ where 42% are hybrid workers. Unsurprisingly, roles in industries such as construction, transportation, and accommodation and food service activities are among the least likely to be hybrid working.

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In the years since the pandemic, ONS surveys have shown a gradual increase in hybrid working. Their Time Use Survey indicated that working from home saved workers on average 56 minutes per day by cutting out a commute. Some of this time is spent resting or engaging in sport or wellbeing activities. This improved approach to personal wellbeing is cited by businesses as a key reason for maintaining a hybrid working model.