CAMPAIGNERS pushing for family-friendly work practices were at Holyrood yesterday to press for change for those on low incomes.
A report by Family Friendly Working Scotland (FFWS) suggests parents with low earnings are more likely to be in jobs which deny flexible working options.
Research found adults in the most affluent income bracket are 23 per cent more likely to have access to flexible hours than those in the worst-off 20 per cent.
Parents on higher incomes are also more than twice as likely to have access to paid time off when a child is ill than those on the lowest incomes, while those at the other end of the pay scale are more likely to call in sick themselves rather than say their child is ill.
FFWS, a partnership between several parents’ groups, says the debate around work and families has focused on top and middle earners despite growing concern about the lives of those who are “just managing”.
Gillian Martin MSP, above, who hosted yesterday’s event, said: “I am firm believer in the benefits of flexible working for employers and employees.
“The advantages of flexible working practices and family friendly hours and to working parents are obvious, but studies and experience have shown that people’s productivity is enhanced if their employers are seen to value employees and offering family friendly work is a key way of reducing staff turnover.
“It makes economic sense for workplaces to hold on to employees.”
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