Flexible contracts: Behind the headlines

Flexible contracts, which include zero hours, temporary, freelance and seasonal working, are used across industries and by many different types of workers.

They are used by people for a variety of reasons; for some it’s a positive choice to suit family commitments for others it’s the only option available.

However, the survey of workers also shows that a greater proportion of people on flexible contracts are having to pay for their own training than workers on permanent contracts.

This may mean they are missing out on skills development and opportunities to progress in their career. If these types of contracts are used as stepping stones in a career (particularly by young people), are employers storing up skills problems for the future?