Flexible Working Rights For Parents

Millions of parents with children under 16 will today be eligible to ask employers for flexible work arrangements.

An extra 4.5 million parents – in addition to the six million parents and carers who already have the right – will be able to ask for flexible working arrangements.

The government said the extension is aimed at helping families balance their work and home lives.

Previously only parents of children up to the age of six or with disabled children aged up to 18, had the right to ask employers for flexible working hours.

Also, from April, all expectant mothers who seek medical advice from a doctor or midwife will be eligible for a one-off, tax-free payment of £190.

Talking to parents at Sainsburys in Dulwich, Harriet Harman, Minister for Women and Equality, said: "Families are the framework of our lives and matter not just to individuals but to our communities, the economy, and society as a whole.

"Mothers often tear their hair out trying to balance earning a living with bringing up their children and need more flexibility at work. And fathers want to be able to play a bigger part in bringing up their children."

A survey of 1,000 people, commissioned by the Government Equalities Office, found two-thirds of working parents state it would be helpful to work flexibly as their children get older.

Half of parents of 11-16 year olds said that they would help with homework if they could find the time.

More than half (53%) feel their job prevents them spending the amount of time they would live with their children.

"Children don't stop needing their parents' time when they reach their sixth birthday. We have already built a strong foundation of support for families through the right for parents with children under six to request flexible work. But, as any parent knows, older children going through the teenage years need just as much support and guidance," Ms Harman added.

Meanwhile, mothers-to-be are eligible to ask for a claim form from their midwife at their first antenatal appointment after the 25th week of pregnancy.

Expectant mums will be given a claim form to sign and send off, which they must do within 31 days. When the claim is approved, the money is paid directly into a bank or building society account.

(JM/BMcC)