New flexible working research helps make case for reasonable adjustments

17th February 2010

A report published today about the health benefits of flexible working helps demonstrate that it benefits all employees, not just those with disabilities.

The report found that mental health, blood pressure, and sleep patterns were better among people who could determine their own working hours. Published by the Cochrane Library, the report is based on a review of 10 studies of more than 16,000 people.

Susan Scott-Parker, Chief Executive of Employers' Forum on Disability, said: “This report helps show that flexible working benefits everyone, not just disabled employees who may need it as a reasonable adjustment under the Disability Discrimination Act.

“Most reasonable adjustments are cost-free, and making flexible working the norm is one way in which employers can benefit from getting it right on disability.

“Organisations like this are better employers for everyone, and make significant cost savings and productivity gains through developing more efficient recruitment, employment and customer service processes.”

Ends

Notes to editors

Media enquiries, please contact:

Brenda Otema, Communications & Marketing Officer
Employers' Forum on Disability
Email: brenda.otema@efd.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Employers' Forum on Disability

Employers' Forum on Disability is the employers' organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers. With over 300 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 20 per cent of the UK workforce.Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers.

www.efd.org.uk