Mitie has introduced two new policies to help employees achieve a better work-life balance, the company has announced.
The facilities management business, which employs 64,000 people and is headquartered in London, is implementing enhanced flexible working and carer’s leave in advance of both becoming legal entitlements in the UK next year.
Championed by the firm’s Parents and Carers Network, which includes around 500 parents and caregivers across the business, Mitie says the move reflects its “commitment to creating a workplace that listens to its people and prioritises their wellbeing”.
Effective from 1 September, employees can now request flexible working from day one of their employment instead of waiting until they have completed 26 weeks of service, as is currently required.
Additionally, those with caring responsibilities, which includes foster carers, will benefit from an extra week of unpaid leave each year. The company estimates this will impact around 5,700 staff member who have caring duties.
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 company that listens, evolves, and puts the needs of our people at the forefront of our workplace policies.”
Richard Insull, member of the Mitie Parents and Carers network, said: “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.”
