Younger Workers Returning To Offices In Greater Numbers Than Older Staff – Study

Hybrid working is continuing to reshape working life in the UK, with younger employees returning to offices more frequently than older colleagues, according to new research.

A study by Virgin Media O2 found that commuting patterns vary significantly across age groups. After sharp falls in office attendance late last year, the number of 18 to 24-year-olds travelling to workplaces has rebounded strongly in 2025. By contrast, workers in older age brackets are commuting less often, suggesting a lasting shift toward hybrid routines.

The report showed that trips among 25 to 34-year-olds fell 10% year-on-year in the second quarter, with a 5% drop among those aged 35 to 44. Workers aged 45 to 54 also reduced their commuting by 5%, while those over 65 recorded a similar decline, pointing to a slow but steady reduction in regular office-based work for older staff.

Jeanie York, chief technology officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “Commuting in the UK is no longer one-size-fits-all. While younger workers are increasing their trips to the office, the trend across other age groups shows Brits are embracing hybrid routines.”

Experts say the trend reflects not only lifestyle preferences but also the career needs of younger employees. Kelly Nicoll, president of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, noted: “Around half of 18 to 24-year-olds say home and hybrid working makes it harder to build relationships with colleagues and managers. Managers need to provide structured supervision, mentoring and check-ins to support younger and hybrid workers.”

The findings underline the challenges for organisations trying to balance flexibility with collaboration. For project managers, the data suggests office strategies need to be adapted to different workforce segments, ensuring younger staff receive the in-person support they need while older employees retain flexibility. Building inclusive hybrid policies will be central to sustaining productivity, wellbeing and long-term career development.