Managers endorse CSP’s flexible working guide

The Building a better balance guide, already available to stewards, has been re-issued with specific guidance for managers dealing with requests for flexible working.

Ann Ross, pictured, left, chair of the CSP’s network for managers, LAMPS, and chief allied health professions officer with Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS, welcomed the publication.

‘I’ve not always been open to flexible working,’ she admitted. ‘But this gives people a starting point for a discussion with your manager.’

She said it had helped staff coming up to maternity leave to think about options for their return. ‘They may want to work in different ways, perhaps starting later so they can take their children to school.’

If they then finish work later in the day, it could open up scope for later physio appointments and offering clinics to people beyond standard hours.

Jill Taylor, pictured, right, CSP industrial relations chair, was thrilled with the booklet. ‘It helps us to understand why managers say the things they do and what the arguments are in response to that.

‘It’s not just for women, but for men as well. It’s important to remember it’s for both, as men may have caring responsibilities for elderly parents as well as children.’