By contrast, most workers prefer hybrid working with flexibility to decide when and how they work, both in the office and elsewhere – even more than working fully remotely.

Sarah* works at a travel company that had a three-day in-office work policy – until now, that is. “Our HR department sent us an email saying: ‘Happy Christmas, and by the way, we’re reducing your work-from-home days,’” she tells us. “The communication and timing was terrible. Their reasoning was productivity. My immediate reaction was: show me the receipts – what’s the data? You can’t miss a target you don’t have.”

The keys to maintaining positive employee sentiment when it comes to where and how they work are transparency, freedom of choice and trust. Ultimately, changing work policies which take back employees’ hard won flexibility feels like a loss. “It feels very backwards and unreflective of what people want and need,” Sarah said.

Emily Fish works for NHS Charities Together, a remote-first organisation. “I didn’t pick the role specifically because it was fully remote, although I have found it beneficial not having to commute. I also find it allows a better work-life balance and more flexibility,” she says. “It would be nice to go into the office once a week or even once a fortnight, but I definitely wouldn’t go into the office full time. My partner does this and I do not envy him.”

Why are bosses still mandating a return to the office in 2025?