Energy supplier OVO offers flexible bank holidays, as survey shows three in four workers would welcome the same choice

Bristol-based energy supplier OVO is offering staff flexible bank holidays. The announcement was made as the UK prepares to take a raft of Mondays off during May.

The move follows new research commissioned by OVO showing nearly three in four UK workers (72 per cent) would like to have flexible bank holidays.

More than half (51 per cent) say their top reason is to be able to make other special occasions such as weddings, while over a third (34 per cent) would use the time off for religious and cultural events and 31 per cent would use it to save money for foreign travel.

Of all the bank holidays, UK workers want to swap out the late May spring bank holiday (May 29th) the most.

The firm said its new flexible bank holiday offer enhances OVO’s overall approach to flexible working, creating a place where people can invest in their career while balancing other aspects of their life with no rigid expectations.

Flexible working also creates an environment of inclusivity, giving people from different faiths and backgrounds the opportunity to practise their beliefs how and when they wish.

However, Christmas Day, New Year, and The King's Coronation will remain fixed Bank Holidays for all.

Charlotte Eaton, chief people officer, said: “At OVO we understand that fixed Bank Holidays don't work for everyone. So, having listened to our people, as part of our new People Offer we introduced flexible bank holidays.

"Our community can choose to take their flexible Bank Holiday on a different day if they prefer - this might be to celebrate their own faith and beliefs, attend a special event, or to simply enjoy their annual leave when the sun is shining.

"We've aimed to make our offering as progressive as possible, putting our people first so they can make the choice that works for them and their families.”