Over the years, legislation has assisted parent’s place within business, it has assisted women returning to the workplace, and most recently has identified the need for Flexible Working Practices to allow men and women to balance the hats of employee, carer, mum or dad. 

The Flexible Working addition to the Employment Act 2002 recognises the challenges for mothers, fathers and carers.   This became effective in April 2003 and recognised an individual’s right to a fulfilled life inside and outside paid work to the mutual benefit of the individual, business and society.

Anyone can ask their employer for flexible work arrangements however the government has introduced a statutory right to those

§        With a child under 6 or a disabled child under 18

         From April 07, a carer who cares for spouse, partner or relative living at the same address

Many employers confuse Flexible Working with reducing hours or allowing flexitime however the act looks at other practices allowing flexibility.  Other practices you can consider include – 

• working from home,
• mobile working,
• secondments,
• relocation to closer office, and
• allowance for leave in the event of child sickness etc, to name a few.

In a recent CIPD survey 70% of respondents believed flexible working practices increased employee motivation. Over half of organisations commented on more successful recruitment and retention.  Other benefits included

• Better Health,
• Less Stress,
• Less Absenteeism,
• Lower Staff Turnover,
• Better Productivity and
• even less traffic congestion and pollution on our roads!   

Emma of Prestige Employment Solutions commented “there is an increased need for flexibility in the workplace, for both the business and the employee; after all the ability to provide a high quality of working life distinguishes you from your competition.   “The employers who offer flexibility to their staff will attract applications from a wider, more diverse pool and will experience a more motivated, productive recruit who remain with their employer longer”.

Lorraineadded “Our aim is to assist companies in creating this happy workforce.  We work side by side with businesses in creating policies and procedures to create a better work life balance for their staff, benefiting the employee and the company.”

Should you have any queries on any of the issues, please contact Emma or Lorraine at Prestige Employment Solutions on 02830252107.