Benefits of flexible working to small firms to be explored in joint study

Flexible working can work for small employers as well as their employees, but it is the business case, not legislative requirements that will deliver change. This is the starting point for a joint initiative between the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), at the request of Mark Prisk MP, Shadow Minister for Small Business and Enterprise.

The two organisations have teamed up to research examples of effective flexible working in small firms that is delivering benefits for businesses and their employees. These examples will be used to produce advice and practical guidance for small firms that want to offer flexible working, but are concerned about the consequences for their business.

Mike Emmott, Employee Relations Adviser at the CIPD, says:

ìEmployees increasingly expect to have more control over their working lives. Employers who offer flexible working opportunities benefit from an engaged workforce and improved profitability. That is why UK employers are already offering a variety of flexible working opportunities, in many cases to employees not covered by the statutory right to request flexible working. It is a focus on the business case, not an increased legislative burden, that is the key to improving working lives.î

David Frost, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, says:

ìSmall firms face real challenges in offering flexible working to staff without jeopardising production or service targets, or impacting on other business objectives. However, there are many firms that have found ways round the difficulties, and are reaping real rewards. Our research will take real examples of smaller firms that have adopted flexible working, examine the challenges they faced, and use this to provide practical guidance to other firms considering going down this road.î

Mark Prisk MP, Shadow Minister for Shadow Minister for Small Business and Enterprise, says:

We donít need more laws to improve business practices. Thereís a strong business case for more small firms to adopt flexible working practices, and the Conservatives want to help.

Thatís why weíre delighted to support this work by the British Chambers of Commerce and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

Together we can help small firms that are leading the way in terms of flexibility.