Lawyers name terms

Solicitors at a Birmingham law firm have been given the chance to decide how they can work more effectively under sweeping changes designed to encourage a better work-life balance.

All 25 partners and solicitors at commercial firm Putsman.wlc, along with support staff, have been asked how they would like to change their working practices.

Suggestions have ranged from flexible working hours to increased unpaid holiday leave, and according to managing partner Julia Holden, all suitable ideas have been implemented.

'We've asked the staff to look at their individual needs, and the only criteria we have is that their proposal has the client in mind and does not inconvenience their colleagues,' she said.

'Many people have wanted to work from home, and so we have improved our IT system to allow for remote access.'

The system has been piloted on one-third of the firm for the last two years, and has been rolled out to the remainder in recent weeks.

Ms Holden says she received no unfeasible suggestions.

'One or two people have proposed job-sharing, and we have not been able to put that into practice yet because we are still recruiting for the extra post, but all other suggestions have been accommodated.'

She said encouraging a work-life balance made good business sense.

'Having a work force which balances home and work life means fewer sick days and improved customer service,' she said.

'However, the challenge is to ensure that people who choose to work flexibly are valued the same as colleagues who work traditional hours.'

Victoria MacCallum