Contracts and working arrangements: research and commentary | Acas

Publications and commentary about the challenges and solutions around different ways of working, from flexible work to insecure contracts and the gig economy.

Research and discussion papers

Organisational case studies on flexible working

Research looking at the different flexible working practices in different organisations and sectors.

Independent research, 29 November 2024

Beyond hybrid: the current state of flexible working

Analysis of Acas helpline calls, looking at the current perspectives and challenges people face at work around flexible working.

Acas discussion paper, 7 October 2021

Dismissal and re-engagement (fire and rehire)

Findings from a fact-finding exercise by Acas into the use and prevalence of fire and rehire practices.

8 June 2021

Ain't that typical? Everyday challenges for an atypical workforce

Insights into atypical work in the UK, its problems and how to encourage good practice.

Acas discussion paper, 1 July 2017

Flexibility in the workplace

Desk and field research looking at best practice in flexible work arrangements.

Independent research, 1 July 2017

Blogs and articles

Employers and flexible working: what are the current challenges?

Dr Calum Carson, Senior Policy Adviser in Acas's Workplace Policy team, comments on a poll on how confident employers feel managing flexible working requests.

23 June 2025

Employment Rights Bill: how will it affect flexible working?

Associate professors Jane Parry and Michalis Veliziotis consider how the Bill could change the way employers and employees manage flexible working.

13 February 2025

How HR can get to grips with the new flexible working laws – People Management website

Acas Senior Policy Adviser Simone Cheng explains the resources available to help employers understand new flexible working laws.

9 April 2024

Introducing the new Acas Code of Practice on requests for flexible working

Acas Senior Policy Adviser Simone Cheng explains how and why the Acas Code of Practice on requests for flexible working has been updated.

8 April 2024

What we've learned about flexible working since the pandemic

Acas talks about what we have learned from our research into flexible working good practices, since the pandemic.

9 April 2024

The changing landscape of flexible working – Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter website

Acas Policy Adviser Heather Taylor discusses the upcoming legislative changes around flexible working.

11 January 2024

Find more research and commentary on our previous website:

Acas advice on this topic

Read Acas advice for employers and workers on:

Contact our research and policy teams

Research team

For more information about Acas research, email research@acas.org.uk.

Workplace policy team

For more information or to sign up for updates about Acas publications, email workplacepolicy@acas.org.uk.