Advantages and Challenges of Flexible working

28.1.2010

Small and medium sized enterprises (SME’s) can benefit from flexible working according to a recent report from the All-Party Parliamentary Small Business Group.

The report, supported by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and sponsored by the Federation of Small Businesses, noted that there are many advantages to be gained from flexible working conditions for both the employer and the employee.

The report found that flexible working can increase staff morale and loyalty, decrease staff turnover, reduce absenteeism and keep overhead costs lower.

There are, however a number of challenges, particularly for smaller businesses. These include the financial and administrative burden of dealing with the growing number of applications.

Twelve recommendations are made in the report that will enable small and medium sized enterprises deal with the challenges that arise from flexible working.

Amongst these are:
• Making sure any extension of the right to request is on a voluntary basis. SME’s require a transition period to verify their suitability for the scheme and to test run new working models in practice.
• Challenging the perception that only parents and carers can take advantage of flexible working arrangements, as this can breed resentment in the workplace amongst other employees.
• Highlighting and explaining why a request for flexible working can be refused on the basis of business needs. This will reduce the concerns of the business owner and increase understanding on the part of the employee.

This bulletin is for general guidance purposes only and should not be used for any other purpose.  Please contact a member of the Employment Team at the Manchester office of Brabners Chaffe Street LLP if you require any specific advice in connection with the material contained in this update, or on any other employment law issues.

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