Women and people with foreign roots are still more likely to be offered part-time or flexible contracts, but the tight labour market is prompting employers to rethink these practices, according to a new report from government socio-cultural think-tank SCP.
The report says employers often base contract offers on assumptions — for instance, that women prefer part-time work, or that flexible contracts suit young people and migrant workers.
However, it says, these expectations do not always reflect workers’ own preferences and most, including young people, favour permanent contracts.
Employers are now more willing to offer permanent contracts and increase working hours to tackle staff shortages, the SCP researchers say. This shift presents an opportunity to improve conditions for groups who have traditionally faced insecure or limited work options.
The SCP also says employers are still reluctant to talk to staff about increasing their hours and that this should become a standard part of employee evaluations.
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