In recognition of companies who really do go the extra mile for working families, we profile some of the best in this series. Today, we look at law firm Simmons & Simmons.
Sector: Law
Number of employees: 796
Nominated for: Flexible working
What it does: The legal sector is famous for long days in the office, but Simmons & Simmons is bucking the trend with a commitment to flexible working that comes from the very top. Developing greater flexibility is included in its business plan, and a steering committee is made up of people from the highest levels. All staff are allowed to choose a working pattern that meets their needs, whether they need to leave early to pick up children or to play sport. Case studies on the intranet promote flexible working for all lifestyles.
Why it does it: "We want to dispel the myth that flexible working is all because of children, and to involve all employees in the discussion. Enshrining it in the business plan has really helped. We make sure the HR department has the knowledge and confidence to challenge people if necessary, and the intention is always to look at how we can make a flexible working request work," says Vickie Chamberlain, employee relations and corporate responsibility manager at the firm.
