RNIB offers employer support for flexible working to bring big benefits at little cost
Employers can put flexible working conditions in place for people with sight loss - at less cost than they might think – and benefit from the boosted opportunities for diversity in their workforce.
As new flexible working legislation comes into effect over the next few months, read more about the Flexible Working Bill on the UK government website. RNIB offers support for employers who are making adjustments for staff with sight loss.
Martin O'Kane, Strategic Lead for Employment at RNIB, explains: “This bill is good news for people with sight loss and good news for employers because providing more flexible conditions for employees stops people with sight loss leaving work unnecessarily and will encourage a more diverse work force. Many adjustments can reasonably be made at minimal cost and involve little inconvenience.”
Assistance with funding more costly adjustments is available by assessment through the government’s Access to Work scheme.
Workers will have the right to request flexible working from starting a new job; employers are required to consider any requests and provide a reason before rejection. Flexible working practices can include options on the hours worked, working patterns and location.
As workers will benefit from these changes, the UK Government says the measures are also good for British business.
Business and Trade Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “A happier workforce means increased productivity, and that’s why we’re backing measures to give people across the UK even more flexibility over where and when they work.
“Research has shown companies that embrace flexible working can attract more talent, improve staff motivation and reduce staff turnover – boosting their business’s productivity and competitiveness, helping firms to attract more talent, increase retention and improve workforce diversity.”
Employers can get help to support employees with sight loss to work more flexibly and get advice on a range of other adjustments through visiting RNIB’s Employment pages:
Employers - make your workplace more accessible | RNIB | RNIB
If you are in work and want advice on how to speak to your employer about flexible working and adjustments, please visit:
