New research has found that working from home can help companies avoid redundancies.
The 2010 IRS Flexible Working Survey, published by XpertHR, revealed that 25 per cent of organisations have already used or are considering using flexible working practices to help reduce job cuts.
XpertHR employment editor, Charlotte Wolff explained how the research includes several examples of how companies are utilising flexible working to cut costs. "Two councils have specifically expanded the use of home working, mobile working and hot-desking, so they can reduce the number of workstations they need.”
She went on to say: "The aim at one of these public sector organisations is to achieve a ratio of three employees to two desks, thereby reducing the amount of accommodation they need and allowing them to release some capital.”
Other research has shown that firms around the world are concerned about retaining good people, especially during a recession. A global survey from the consultancy company, the Hay Group, carried out in December 2008, found: “While employees fear losing their jobs, organisations fear the loss of top talent and critical skills.”
With signs of economic recovery now showing, but with cost constraints still a major issue, employers are looking at ways to retain employees without having to offer them financial incentives. Providing staff with more flexible working hours and flexible location is one option increasingly considered by many firms. 
