Facilities management firm Mitie has introduced carers’ leave and updated its flexible working policy ahead of the two initiatives becoming UK statutory requirements next year.
Mitie employees with caring responsibilities, of which there are an estimated 5,700, will now be entitled to an additional one week of unpaid carers’ leave per year, providing support to those with caring responsibilities as they manage their personal lives alongside their careers. It also applies to employees who foster care, going above the requirements included in the upcoming statutory legislation.
In addition, staff now have the opportunity to request flexible working arrangements from the first day of their employment, rather than waiting for 26 weeks of continuous service required in current legislation.
The policy changes are aimed at supporting staff to achieve a better work-life balance and those with caring responsibilities. Championed by employees in Mitie’s Parents and Carers network who used their voices to influence changes across the business, the decision reflect the firm’s commitment to creating a workplace that listens to its people and prioritises their wellbeing.
Jasmine Hudson, chief people officer at Mitie, said: “As one of Britain’s largest employers, we’re focused on ensuring our benefits are focused on areas that will make the biggest difference to our 64,000 colleagues by hearing from them directly about how we can help improve their working lives. Our diversity and inclusion networks have a vital role to play and our Parents and Carers network has helped develop and implement these positive changes. We are proud to be a firm that listens, evolves, and puts the needs of our people at the forefront of our workplace policies.”
Richard Insull,a member of Mitie’s Parents and Carers network, added: “The Mitie Parents and Carers Network is a testament to the strength and impact of colleagues’ voices at Mitie. As a member of the network, I am proud of the positive and engaged conversations we are driving, which have led to important change across our business.”