Managers 'feel threatened by flexible workers'

An increasing number of line managers are worried about losing their jobs due to an increase in flexible working, it has been claimed.

The issue was discussed at a conference hosted by telecommunications company BT, where seven in ten staff work flexibly and 13 per cent work from home, according to Personnel Today.

Philip Flaxton of Work Wise UK said that he believes managers are worried that they will not be needed if more people work away from the office.

Director for people and policy at BT Caroline Waters agreed with Mr Flaxton, saying: "Managers are afraid of losing their status, their big offices and their prestige."

Speakers at the conference said that more should be done to convince company heads of the benefits of flexible working.

Brian Higton, a spokesperson for the Telework Association, recently said that working from home is becoming more popular as people seek to avoid the increased cost and difficulty of commuting, balance more complex lifestyles and look for an improved work-life balance.

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