Part-time working scheme is important for women

by Rudy Scheinost

The government's new scheme, which is aimed at getting more women into highly-skilled part time work, highlights an area of employment which has become vital in recent years.

Having senior roles open to part-time workers is a bold move and one that reflects the changing face of employment in the UK.

Companies have started to look for more part-time workers over the last 18 months as they try to control their spending and why shouldn't part-time employees capture senior positions?

Part-time roles give employees the chance to get a good work-life balance, especially for people who have other commitments, such as raising children or caring for a loved one.

Commenting on the scheme Toni Eastwood, OBE, training director at everywoman, said: "Part-time work should not mean less pay or less value - flexibility should not come at a cheaper price."

Labour has tried to increase flexibility in the workplace recently by getting rid of an official retirement age.

As a result over 65s could now get a part-time role as well.