The 2026 Scottish election may still be months away but behind the scenes political parties are deliberating which ideas and policies will win over the most voters. That’s why we’re publishing our short manifesto on flexible working that we hope politicians of all stripes will take into account – because flexible working isn’t a niche issue, it’s a powerful lever for economic growth, social justice and wellbeing.
Benefits of flex
We believe flexible working is good for people, good for business, and good for our wider economy and society. In our manifesto we share key statistics from our research on how flexible working helps parents stay in work, supports carers, enables people with health conditions to thrive, and opens doors for those furthest from the labour market. We also show how flex helps employers attract and retain talent, boost productivity, and build resilient, high-performing teams.
Role for Holyrood
While employment law is decided by the UK Government, our manifesto shows how there is still a vital role for Holyrood in shaping the culture, expectations and practical support around flexible working in Scotland.
Especially when you add in the fact the UK Employment Rights Bill will change how employers can legally refuse flexible working requests by 2027, the next Scottish Government has a crucial window of opportunity to inform and inspire Scottish employers to ensure benefits for businesses and individuals alike.
What we’re asking for
Our manifesto sets out seven practical (and non-legislative) actions we urge all political parties to include in their 2026 Scottish election manifestos. We’ve summarised them very briefly below.
Scotland’s new Government should:
- Lead by example as an employer
- Make flexible working a measurable requirement for grants and procurement
- Widen the focus of employability programmes to include work with employers and the creation of more flexible jobs
- Increase support for career returners
- Embed flexible working in business and economic strategies
- Fund pilots to drive more flexible working in low paid roles
- Fund activities to support employers to explore and embed flexible working
These actions are achievable, affordable, and impactful. They don’t require legislation – but they do require leadership.
We believe that by committing to these steps, the next Scottish Government can unlock the full potential of flexible working to support workers, strengthen businesses, and build a fairer, more prosperous Scotland.
Help us spread the word by reading and sharing our manifesto.
