Article contributed by Fiona Powell.
Workplaces are changing… and under the spotlight and gaining popularity are flexible working arrangements.
While many New Zealand employers have led the way and been accommodating requests for flexible working arrangements for years, new legislation means employees can now request flexible working arrangements to enable them to care for their dependants.
From 1 July this year parents and caregivers got the right to request a flexible working arrangement under the Employment Relations (Flexible Working Arrangements) Amendment Act.
Flexibility is a feature of the new provision which applies to a variety of caring arrangements. The Act does not define “care” or require a particular level of care. It can include but is not limited to, caring for:
• children (either your own or others)
• adults (e.g. elderly parents or others)
• whānau or āiga
• friends
• neighbours.
Workers do not need to be related to those they care for nor do they have to live in the same place.
To be eligible for the right to ask for flexible working arrangements, workers must have worked for their employer for at least six months and be caring for someone. If they meet these minimum requirements, they can request flexible working arrangements to help balance their work and care.
How these arrangements are worked out is entirely up to the employer and employee. Once the basic criteria are met the options are unlimited. The provisions are demand driven and can be adapted as and how the two parties want. The only constant factor is that the arrangements are entirely voluntary and must work for both parties.
Employers must consider and respond to employee requests within three months and employees can make only one application in any twelve month period.
To find out more, visit: www.dol.govt.nz/flexiworking
Source: Dept of Labour
