Flexible Work Commission launched

The Recruitment & Employment Confederation has announced the launch of its Flexible Work Commission.

The new expert group will drive practical recommendations to Government and business on "re-energising" the UK’s flexible labour market and using flexible working patterns to bring in the right skills and enhance productivity.

Chaired by David Frost, former Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce and author of the recent Frost/Black report to government on sickness absence, the Commission will bring together business leaders from both large and small companies, recruiters, academics and think tanks. Organisations such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development will also be taking part.

The Commission will explore how Britain can not only make the most of current flexibility, but expand it further for maximum benefit to both employers and workers. The Commission will look at how employers are currently embedding flexible staffing arrangements within their organisations and how flexible working can enhance productivity, skills development and career prospects for individuals.

The Commission’s work will culminate in a report and a series of recommendations to Government, employers and recruiters on how to best grow and develop workforce flexibility.

Chair of the Commission David Frost said: "Our flexible labour market is seen as one of the UK's major competitive advantages. Quantifying the benefits to business and workers and identifying ways of enhancing this flexibility are the core aims of the Commission. This initiative will not only drive forward the political debate, but will also develop practical solutions for employers on maximizing the benefits of flexible working arrangements.”

REC Chief Executive Kevin Green said: “In the current economic climate, companies need to consider how best to organise their workforce in order to compete and bring the right skills into the business. The flexible staffing solutions developed by employers and recruiters will help UK businesses respond quickly to new opportunities. The Commission will take stock of the latest trends and innovations and will lead the debate on how Government can best ensure that, post-AWR, the UK continues to benefits from a dynamic and flexible labour market.”

The first meeting of the Commission will take place at the REC offices in January 2012. REC members will be invited to provide regular input into the work and policy recommendations of the Commission.