An exploration of older worker flexible working arrangements in smaller firms

Abstract

This article explores flexible working arrangements ( FWA s) for older workers in smaller UK firms. We address three questions: how far older workers need and value FWA s, the type of FWA s they need, and whether smaller firms can offer these FWA s. We draw on 46 semi‐structured interviews from six smaller case study firms to present a qualitative exploration of both owner‐manager and (under‐researched) worker perspectives. We evidence the offer and importance of temporal and work‐role FWA s, together with the use of i‐deals and ad hoc FWA s in meeting the needs of this diverse group. We make three contributions: first, theoretically, in arguing for an extended definition of FWA s and understanding formality of offer; second, to practice, in highlighting FWA mechanisms appropriate to older workers; third, to policy, in questioning the effectiveness of both the business case approach to older worker FWA s in smaller firms and policy's positioning of older workers as a homogeneous group.