Improving work-life balance in Herefordshire
Getting the work-life balance right in the workplace can raise staff morale, reduce staff absenteeism and increase productivity; that's the message being given to businesses across the county at a conference being held at Hereford's Three Counties Hotel this week.
Recent changes in employment law, pressures on family life and government campaigns to raise the profile of traditional family life and values have put the dilemma of balancing work and family life firmly on the agenda.
A growing number of employers are introducing flexible working policies and other work-life balance practices such as job sharing and flexible working hours. As a result many employers are reporting reduced staff turnover, increased productivity, raised staff morale, reduction of absenteeism, and are consequently attracting and retaining better quality workers.
Herefordshire Council is working with the Herefordshire Primary Care Trust and Chamber of Commerce to host a free practical and interactive one day conference for employers focussing on effective work-life balance and family-friendly practices in the workplace. The conference takes place on Friday 14th March at the Three Counties Hotel in Hereford from 9.30am-3.30pm.
Top of the agenda will be more effective management of staff, helping employees to combine a fulfilling career with a happy and healthy home life resulting in a more productive workplace.
More than sixty delegates from local businesses, including human resource managers, and those who have responsibility for managing staff in childcare businesses, have already signed up for the day. Guest speakers include David Whiting from ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service), David Hinchcliffe from the Marches Association and Mike Ashton from the Chamber of Commerce, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
The conference will be opened by Gi Cheesman, head of human resources at Herefordshire Council and Primary Care Trust. "The health and well-being of the people of Herefordshire is incredibly important - it underpins the main aims and objectives of the Council, the Primary Care Trust and many other organisations across the county," she commented.
"Conditions and practices in the workplace can have a significant effect on people's health, so work-life balance and family friendly policies at work are a vital tool in promoting health and well-being.
"I look forward to opening this important conference. I hope it will be the beginning of a series of events across Herefordshire which will encourage more employers to introduce work-life balance policies in their organisations."
There are still a few places available. Contact Clare Williams at Herefordshire Council (01432) 383492 for reservations
