Call centre worker receives £19,500 compensation after being denied flexible working
Communications giant Telewest has agreed to pay £19,500 in compensation after refusing to grant employee Deborah Clarke suitable flexible working arrangements to allow her to care for her baby.
EOC (21 September 2005) - Ms Clarke was supported by the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC). Telewest has also apologised to Ms Clarke and agreed to work with the EOC in respect of its flexible working, dignity at work and maternity policies, and will be monitored by the EOC over the next two years to ensure that changes are implemented properly.
Deborah Clarke, who had worked for Telewest for nearly seven years, requested flexible working arrangements six months before she was due to return to work after her maternity leave. However the communications company continually refused to provide Ms Clarke with suitable working arrangements, demanding that she worked evening and weekend shifts, which made it impossible for her to look after her son. Telewest's refusal to listen forced Ms Clarke to resign in December 2003, resulting in considerable stress and financial hardship for her and her family.
This settlement of Ms Clarke's claim by Telewest comes as the EOC launches its final report into part time and flexible working, which has highlighted the extent of the economic problems caused by the lack of opportunities for flexible working in the UK – leading to 5.6 million people, or 4 in 5 of Britain's 7 million part-time workers, working below their potential.
Jenny Watson, Acting Chair of the EOC, said:
"Many women returning from maternity leave want to request flexible working, and employers need to treat those requests seriously if they are to avoid pregnancy discrimination which is, sadly, experienced by 45% of pregnant working women. And flexible working options benefit both workers and businesses. Our recent investigation has found that flexible working increases productivity, morale and staff retention rates so it's no surprise that the most forward looking companies make it available to all. We are confident that both Telewest and its staff will benefit from the changes that will now be put in place."
Contact
HRM Guide