The Government is encouraging employers to offer a range of policies to help parents balance the demands of their job with bringing up children. Employers who provide family friendly arrangements to help their employees could gain from:
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more loyal staff who don't need to take unauthorised leave
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an increase in the number of staff who return to work after maternity leave
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experienced and skilled staff staying on after they have children
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good returns on investment in training staff
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high levels of staff productivity
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better public image
Help for employees
Your employer could benefit from getting involved in childcare by providing information on childcare, Working Families Tax Credit, Disabled Person's Tax Credit and childcare allowances. Employers could also get involved with the local Childcare Partnership.
Flexible work options
Sometimes you may need to fit your job around the demands of your family, especially while your children are young, when they are coping with new circumstances or if you have a child with disabilities or particular needs. Here are some options to discuss with your employer:
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Working part-time or reduced hours
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Job sharing
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Term-time working
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Flexi time - allowing you to choose your hours within set limits
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Career breaks – unpaid time away from your job
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Sabbatical - paid time away from your job
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Teleworking – working from home
If you have a child under 16 years of age, you have the right to request to work flexibly. Requests should normally be in writing but your personnel/HR section will be able to advise you about this. Your employer must consider your application and give you a written response of their decision. Options for flexible working may include some of the above.
Help for lone parents on Income Support
If you are a lone parent (starting work, looking for work or claiming benefits) bringing up a child under the age of 16 you could join New Deal for Lone Parents.
Once you join the programme, you will be offered:
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Advice on jobs, training and benefits
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Help with working out how much you need to earn to be better off
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Help finding out about childcare
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Help with childcare costs while you train or attend job interviews
To find out more about New Deal for Lone Parents, contact your local Job Centre Plus, Social Security or New Deal Information line Tel: 0800 917 4164.
Help for students
If you are a parent who wants to study or train, you may be able to get help paying for childcare while you study. Increased funding to contribute to the childcare costs of more students and trainees has been made available from the Government. Ask your student welfare advisor or tutor for information about childcare while you study or train.