More than one-third (37%) of UK workers would opt for a one-off payment to help with the cost of living, higher than the global average of 27%, according to research by Always Designing for People (ADR).
As part of its latest study People at work 2024: a global workforce view, it surveyed more than 34,000 workers across 18 countries, and found that a one-off payment is more popular among female respondents (42%) than males (33%).
The research also found that UK respondents value shorter work weeks, extra paid days off, flexible-working arrangements and remote working options. They also expressed specific interests in benefits such as free lunches, profit-sharing bonuses, fuel vouchers, wellness days off and transport vouchers.
Around the world, 77% of respondents expect a pay rise in the next 12 months, while 20% do not anticipate a change and 3% expect a pay cut. More than one-third (39%) want a one-off bonus, 37% would like additional annual leave days and 25% want shorter working weeks.
Furthermore, 23% want term-time working, which includes reduced hours during school holidays, 21% want travel vouchers and 15% would like childcare vouchers. One-fifth (19%) want increased pay frequency, while just 8% said they would not be happy with anything but a salary increase.
Sirsha Haldar, general manager, UK and Northern Europe at ADP, said: “These findings will have strategic implications, as businesses navigate an inflationary environment, understanding and implementing acceptable alternatives to pay rises can be crucial for maintaining employee morale and retention. Our research provides valuable benchmarks and actionable insights for HR leaders globally, making it an essential read for organisations striving to adapt to the evolving workforce landscape. I believe this report will provide employers and HR leaders with an in-depth understanding of current workforce trends and innovative compensation strategies.”
