Flexible working championed as commuting time doubles

Employers have been urged to allow staff to work more flexibly after research has shown that the average commuter’s journey time has doubled over the last five years.

The study by employment law firm Peninsula found that the average journey time to work has risen from 35 minutes in 2003 to one hour and five minutes last year.

The rise was attributed to factors such as congestion, roadworks and cancelled or delayed public transport.

“People are finding that they have to wake up and start their journey to work a lot earlier than they did five years ago,” said Peter Done, MD of Peninsula.

“Employees who use the public transport system sometimes find that multiple changes are necessary to reach their final destinations. If one part of their commute is delayed it has a significant impact on the next leg of their journey.

“Those who commute by car are finding it equally frustrating to drive to work and the winter conditions do not help. Employers should allow flexibility where possible and be considerate if there are significant delays.”

Done advised employees to check for potential delays and the weather forecast online the night before to help alleviate commuting stress.

Solutions such as car sharing were also encouraged, to relieve congestion and for its financial and environmental advantages.

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2008