The Pembrokeshire and Derwen NHS Trust recently launched its commitment to flexible working at a work-life balance seminar held at the Queen's Hall in Narberth.
The event was intended to raise awareness of the benefits to be gained by promoting equality of opportunity and implementing flexible working practices. In light of the new legislation giving parents the right to ask for flexible working, due to come into force next year, it was felt that the event would enable the Trust's managers to be positive and pro-active in their handling of such requests.
The day included lectures from guest speakers and interactive discussion with various managers workshops, which introduced the practical aspects of implementing work-life balance policies.
The day was opened by Lynette George, the Trust's Chairman, who referred to the achievement of a successful work-life balance being a continuous process in an organisation's development.
She added: "The Trust is committed to building on its current examples of best practice in flexible working and further developing policies and practices to enable staff to achieve the right work life balance and to provide the highest standards of service for our patients."
Mrs. George welcomed a variety of speakers including Neil Wooding, Equal Opportunities Commissioner for Wales, and Tracey Good for the NHS Equality Unit who, on behalf of the Welsh Assembly, launched a Good Practice Directory. Other speakers included Health Service Managers from other Welsh Trusts who described innovative flexible working practices adopted in their own areas.
As well as Trust staff, the day attracted a number of participants from a variety of local organisations all keen to promote flexible working.