Case studies show how flexible working can work

A new report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has revealed how a number of employers have met the challenge of introducing flexible working arrangements.

Flexible working: the implementation challenge is based on case studies in 12 widely differing organisations. Covering topics such as handling statutory requests to work flexibly, engaging in dialogue with unions, changing organisational culture and monitoring effectiveness, the report provides employers and union reps with useful insights into successful approaches.

CIPD adviser Rebecca Clake has also rebuffed claims by employers' body the CBI that employers are increasingly negative about family-friendly practices.

She pointed out that, in a CIPD survey earlier this year, three-quarters of employers said that flexible working had a positive effect on staff retention, and 70% felt that they it a positive effect on staff motivation.

"At a time when recruitment and retention are major problems for many employers, it is good that many are discovering that flexible working can be a win-win situation for their business and their employees," she said.

Flexible working: the implementation challenge can be downloaded from www.cipd.co.uk/subjects/wrkgtime/flexwking