REC Flexible Work Commission holds first meeting

The meeting chaired by the former CEO of the BCC, David Frost, included employers, recruiters, think-tanks and industry stakeholders such as the PCG and CIPD.

The Commission met to consider the importance of the flexible labour market in the UK, identify the barriers that are preventing greater flexibility and come up with recommendations for both businesses and the coalition as to how these challenges can be overcome.

This first meeting concentrated on laying down the work of the Commission and included a debate on the concepts of flexible employment models versus flexibility in the workplace. The Commission identified potential consequences if legislation concerning flexible working is extended and also that there is a knowledge gap when it comes to managing a flexible workforce.

Mr Frost explained that the flexible labour market in the UK gives the country a significant competitive advantage and drives both investment and growth. However, we now have a high rate of unemployment and the UK is in danger of slipping back into recession, so it is vital that we take a critical look at flexibility.

Employers are now starting to consider the more flexible approach as a sustainable solution rather than a short-term retention strategy.

The chief executive of the REC, Kevin Green, added that the Commission is a critical part of the Confederation's work towards championing flexibility as a key driver of growth over the next ten years. The recruitment sector is keen to step up its role and facilitate more workplace flexibility.

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