GLASGOW-based City Building has announced its employees are being offered flexible working hours.
The construction firm has launched the project in association with Family Friendly Working Scotland (FFWS), which works with employers to promote a “flexible and friendly” working culture.
City Building is keen to change the perception that flexible working is only for working mums. FFWS carried out a survey with the firm’s employees, which showed that although over 60% of the workforce felt that they had a good work life balance, over 150 employees would like to change their start and finishing times. However, most of those felt that requesting flexible working would be perceived as though they were not serious about their job.
Through workshops, FFWS provided support to City Building employers and aimed to reduce any inequalities. Once the results were published, employees with childcare commitments or those who look after elderly relatives, have agreed flexible working hours to coincide with their family requirements.
Graham McLaughlin, a gas engineer, now works from 10am to 6pm, instead of the regular 9 to 5, to assist with childcare commitments. He said, “Changing my hours to help with my childcare has really helped me in my day-to-day life. It’s a really small change, but it makes a big difference to my work life balance.”
Dr Graham Paterson, executive director at City Building added, “The world we live in is constantly changing, and people are increasingly juggling work and family commitments simultaneously. City Building recognises this, and by working closely with FFWS, have made suggestions and recommendations to our employees who felt as though they needed a flexible arrangement. Employee wellbeing is a top priority for us, and we want to support a healthy work life balance. We are already seeing the benefits of flexible working, with employees feeling supported in both their working and family lives, meaning they can give 100% when they are at work.”
Nikki Slowey, co-director at Family Friendly Working Scotland said, “Creating a workplace that supports workers and their family lives isn’t just the right thing to do, it also makes smart business sense. Flexible working has proven business benefits including a more engaged and motivated workforce which drives up productivity. Employers really benefit when they embrace all aspects of their workers lives.”
