At Advent Communications, we stay ahead of the trends that shape the future of work, and right now, hybrid and remote working models are no longer just trends; they are becoming the norm, shaping the future of how we work.
Working from home has changed where we work and how we live, offering many the flexibility to strike a better balance between their professional and personal lives. As we approach 2026, even more changes are on the horizon, making now the perfect time to prepare for what’s to come.
In 2025, UK workers now spend an average of 1.8 days working from home each week, cementing the shift towards flexible work setups.
In this article, we’ll explore the anticipated shifts for both employees and employers and their potential impact on the future of work.
Current State of Remote Work in the UK (2025)
Many people in the UK are now either working remotely or in a hybrid model. They want a balance between teamwork in the office and the comfort of working from home. After the bustling times of full-time office work before the pandemic, employees are seeking more flexible options.
A recent study found that 28% of working adults in Great Britain now follow hybrid work setups. This highlights a major shift towards more flexible working models.
Workers are starting to resist the idea of full-time office attendance. They are concerned about longer travel times, mental health, and maintaining productivity when they must be in office five days a week.
This change is more than just about convenience. It’s about having more personal time and achieving a better work-life balance. For many people, working from home has enabled them to control their schedules, which in turn reduces stress and improves job satisfaction.
What’s Changing in 2026
In 2026, the House of Lords will examine the impact of hybrid and remote work on UK workers. This review could lead to new regulations regarding remote work, office space requirements, and employees’ rights.
Many companies are realising the cost benefits of hybrid or fully remote work setups, particularly in reducing office space, utilities, and commuting costs, which are proving to be long-term financial achievements.
Technology is improving. Better communication platforms, project management tools, and cloud solutions are making hybrid work more efficient. These advancements help employees stay connected and productive, whether they are working from home or in the office.
What’s Coming in 2026 for Employees
As remote work becomes more common, the hybrid model, where employees split their time between home and the office, will likely become the main approach. This will give workers more flexibility in choosing when and where they work. However, hybrid jobs also come with new challenges. Here are those challenges:
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Uncertainty About Hybrid Policies
One primary concern for employees is uncertainty about hybrid policies. By 2026, many companies are expected to establish hybrid policies to ensure fairness and consistency. Employees will require specific guidance on how often they should be in the office, what tools are available for remote work, and how their performance will be evaluated.
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Career Development Challenges
Another area to watch is career development. In a hybrid setup, it might be harder for employees to find mentors, network, and advance in their careers. Working from home can lead to feelings of isolation or being ignored for promotions. Workers still need to advocate for themselves and stay visible in a remote work setting.
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Balancing Between Work and Personal Life
Finally, the balance between work and personal life will continue to change. While work from home offers flexibility, it can blur the lines between work time and personal time. By next year, employees will need to set clear boundaries to avoid burnout and maintain productivity.
Key Considerations for Employers in 2026
Employers must recognise that remote work is evolving and requires a well-defined way. The risk of losing key employees due to strict office policies is high. Employees want flexibility, and without it, companies may experience higher turnover rates, especially in the competitive job market of 2026.
One major issue for employers is how to redesign office spaces for hybrid workers. As more employees split their time between home and the office, traditional office layouts may need to be reconsidered. Employers should invest in flexible, co-working spaces that encourage face-to-face interactions without requiring staff to come in every day.
Employers must also clearly outline their hybrid work policies. This involves establishing clear expectations regarding when employees should be in the office, the guidelines for remote work, and the necessary resources for success. Inadequate policies can lead to misunderstandings, dissatisfaction, and lower morale.
Additionally, employers must stay updated on new laws related to remote work. As policies change, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with new regulations, especially those related to worker rights, health and safety, and data protection.
What to Watch Out in 2026
As we head into 2026, here are some important trends to watch:
- House of Lords Inquiry: Investigations into remote and hybrid work are likely to influence government rules on remote work. This may lead to clearer guidelines for hybrid work models.
- Recruitment Trends: Companies that fail to offer flexibility will struggle to attract top talent. As a result, expect to see some more hiring efforts focused on those who prefer hybrid or remote work arrangements.
- Office Redesigns: More firms will invest in adaptable office spaces for hybrid employees. These redesigned areas will focus on collaboration, private spaces for virtual meetings, and flexible environments.
- The Four-Day Week: As discussions about work-life balance become common, some companies may try a four-day workweek. Watch for case studies on how this new model impacts productivity and employee satisfaction.
Conclusion
Remote work in the UK is now a permanent change in how we work and live. As we approach 2026, it’s clear that hybrid and remote work models will remain and continue to change. New policies, technologies, and strategies will influence how both employees and employers adapt.
To attract and retain top talent, employers must offer flexibility and clear hybrid work policies. For employees, succeeding in a hybrid setting means having clarity, career support, and setting strong boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
By 2026, most work will be done in a hybrid model. Businesses and employees should start adapting to these changes now to succeed in a flexible work culture.