Workplace dissatisfaction in Britain has reached its highest level since records began, according to the latest British Social Attitudes survey. Respondents cited limited flexibility over working hours, fewer opportunities for career progression and a lack of pay rises.
The survey findings come amid a widening gap in pay growth. Resolution Foundation economist Mike Brewer said earnings for the top 10% rose by 7.3% over the past year, compared with 1.1% for the bottom 10%. The article attributes the shift to the national living wage no longer increasing faster than median pay, alongside renewed growth in top salaries.
The share of people who believe the government should reduce the gap between rich and poor has risen from 25% in 2006 to 53% now, according to the survey. Expectations of career advancement have also fallen: the proportion of respondents who expect to progress declined from 35% to 26%.
Despite widespread frustration, the survey’s editor, Professor John Curtice, said the work ethic remains strong. Only 4% of respondents said they would choose not to work if they could, including 2% of young people. However, the proportion willing to work harder than required to help their employer succeed has fallen to its lowest level in the survey’s records.
The article argues that Labour’s employment-rights programme could address some of these concerns by giving workers greater control over their hours and more protection from employers. The survey found that 61% consider it important to decide their own working hours, while 31% said they have that choice in their current job.
Stronger rights to request flexible hours or work from home are due to take effect next year. Employers will have to give specific business reasons if they refuse a request, and discuss it with employees, who may bring a union representative or colleague. New rules that came into force last Friday also allow union representatives to visit workplaces to recruit members. The reforms additionally include a ban on exploitative zero-hours arrangements and guaranteed contracts.
Support for flexible working is high: a YouGov poll for Acas found that 78% of people want it. Business groups have warned that expanded employment rights could reduce jobs, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said her party would repeal measures in Labour’s bill that she describes as damaging to jobs, business and growth.
Sources: The Guardian Politics.