Research Reveals 1/3 of Companies to Allow Flexible Hours for ’12 Games

According to research from business advisory firm Deloitte, bronchi a third of UK companies are set to increase flexible working hours next year, to allow staff to watch the Olympic and Paralympics Games in London.

The report revealed that 32 per cent of respondents claimed they would be happy for staff to take time out to watch live events during the Games, as long as the hours were made up at the start or end of the working day.

Research also claims that 44 per cent of companies will encourage staff to attend the Games, while 42 per cent plan to install screen for staff to watch live events unfold.

London 2012 lead partner at Deloitte, Heather Hancock stated: “It is encouraging to see businesses thinking ahead about the potential impact the Games could have on their day-to-day operations. We know the period of the Olympic and Paralympic Games will not be business as usual, especially in London”.

As well as allowing for more flexible hours, 30 per cent of respondents said they would be more understanding if staff had difficulty getting into work during the Games, which will have a huge impact on commuters.

Stevan Rolls, head of HR at Deloitte added: “Of course, it will be essential for companies to find the right balance and ensure there is no impact on client service levels”.