Flexible working is the most valued benefit for employees, ahead of bonuses according to research by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC).

Its Managing Tomorrow’s People found flexible working arrangements were rated the most important benefit by 47% of respondents, compared to performance-related bonuses which came second (19%).

The results come as the new coalition government has promised to extend the right to request flexible working to all employees.

The survey found a good company pension scheme was the third most popular benefit. Other benefits rated were paid time off to do social or humanitarian work, exposure to advanced networking or social activities and paid training and development.

Michael Rendell, head of human resources at PWC, said: “Two years of recession have changed people’s attitude towards work. With companies mindful of taking on new employees, existing staff have been expected to do more with less.

“Our survey indicates employees may be feeling the pressure, with large numbers hoping for a better work-life balance in the future, and half saying they would rather work for themselves.

“With bonuses unpredictable in uncertain economic conditions, employees are looking for broader benefits.”

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