UK employers will have to create more flexible working opportunities

Families should be able to find work to fit around their needs, says the Government as it calls on employers to promote more flexible working opportunities.

As part of its newly published Family Friendly Taskforce report, more opportunities for part time working and job sharing will be expected from employers.

Businesses will have to come up with good reasons for why this is not possible.

Changes will be made by Jobcentre Plus, who will quiz employers to find out if any advertised vacancy can be part time, job share or flexible.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Yvette Cooper said: “Many parents can feel torn between working and being able to spend enough time with their children. Helping people into jobs, which also meet the needs of their family, is a really important way to tackle poverty and help parents build a better life for their children.

“There aren’t enough quality part-time or flexible jobs available to parents at the moment and I am determined that, starting with my own Department, Government works with business so that we can make sure there are enough opportunities out there for parents who want to work.”