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Private school dads 'could explore flexible working'

Posted on 25th June 2009

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Fathers of private school children as well as those with kids in state schools are being encouraged to explore flexible working options.

Speaking at a coffee morning with dads from the Department for Children, Schools and Families, secretary of state Ed Balls called on employers to promote such "family-friendly" options.

This formed part of the Think Fathers campaign, which was launched in 2008. The first summit was held this week to encourage the public sector, professional bodies, voluntary industry and organisations to investigate how they can better support male workers with youngsters.

"It's only right that dads want to spend more time with their children - we must now ensure that we do all we can to support this," Mr Balls said.

The Confederation of British Industry and recruitment firm Harvey Nash recently discovered a new trend of flexible working.

Their survey showed that the recession has led 45 per cent of companies to increase this measure in order to reduce hours and help staff keep a healthy work-life balance.