Families and businesses across the UAE are reaping the benefit of a scheme that promotes parent-friendly flexible workplace policies.
It was estimated that the Parent-Friendly Label (PFL) programme, launched by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) two years ago, has touched the lives of 148,000 employees and 66,890 parents, directly benefiting nearly 51,500 children of whom 1,492 are disabled.
While the concept of flexible working is nothing new, some businesses have been slow to embrace the model, but analysts said those who fail to are missing out.
The National spoke to parents and experts about the need for flexible work models, while senior figures from business say the practice has increased productivity.
One woman who also knows the value of flexible working practices to a family is Lucy d’Abo, CEO of consultancy firm together, who has three children.
“When I set up another business in 2004, I missed so much of my children’s lives because the work environment didn’t enable me to be able to get home in time,” she said. “If I could have had virtual work 18 years ago it would have been transformative.
“Me being there would have had an enormous impact on my son’s growth, development and mental health. But I never felt that I could. It’s not just about offering flexible hours.
“It’s about recognising that a third of your workforce could be parents at any given time and supporting them has a direct impact on their productivity and well-being.”
