Work-family integration in the UK - a review

Stanworth, Celia, Wergin, Niels-Erik and White, Geoff (2006) Work-family integration in the UK - a review. International Employment Relations Review, 12 (2). pp. 19-31. ISSN 1324-1125

Abstract

There has been increasing concern among employers, workers and trade unions about pressures placed on workers by the mismatch between work requirements and dometsic roles in the UK. The issues of overwork, lengthening working time and work-life balance have risen to the top of the Government's political agenda and the Employment Act 2002 has given working parents for the first time the right to request flexible working arrangements. There have also been improvements in legislation governing maternity provision; new entitlements to parental leave; and new rights for part-time workers. These new rights have their origins, to a greater or lesser extent, in European Directives requiring member states to adopt such policies. These have provided a stimulus to employers to seek new ways to integrate work and family roles. This article is based on secondary sources and examines the context for this new concern with work-life balance; the Government's views and the legislation which has emerged as a result; the range of policies and practices being adopted by UK employers; and the degree to whcih such policies have been successful.

Actions (login required)