Media release
24 February 2009

Supporting Families At The Jobs Summit

The Families Commission welcomes the work that will be done at the Prime Minister’s Job Summit to find useful and creative ways to keep as many New Zealanders as possible in work during the recession.

Chief Commissioner Jan Pryor says “People are the most valuable asset of any business. Keeping them and their families well supported during tough economic times will be vital.

“Our research shows some ways in which business, employees and government could work together to both find solutions and support families.”

Cooperation and communication at all levels is vital and should always include those who will be affected by planned changes, she said.

“We particularly encourage those planning to introduce changes in work hours or other flexible work options to discuss and agree on the plans with staff. This can help identify and manage any potential difficulties. For example, asking employees to work longer hours or different hours might be a logical solution for some employers. However it can create enormous difficulty for staff with children who need to find appropriate childcare. Discussions can help find a mutually agreeable solution.”

The Commission’s research shows that flexible work practises can be a win win result for both employers and families of staff - especially when there’s been discussion to find what will work best for both.”

The Commission has provided its input to the Jobs Summit via the online submission process.

The submission includes encouragement for solutions that improve efficiency in the way people work, rather than simply introducing longer hours (eg the government’s tax changes for businesses which will reduce the amount of time businesses and self employed people spend on compliance).

The Commission would also like to see work continue on improvements to out of school childcare and early childhood education services.

“These services will be particularly vital if parents are working more flexible hours, retraining or job seeking.”

“We are also concerned about the potential for debt to become an even more serious issue for many New Zealand families. We recommend that budgeting information be made widely available including as part of any workplace restructuring process and when people seek government support. Our research shows it is important that people look for this help as soon as possible if debt is likely to become a problem,” said Dr Pryor.

Click here to read the submission

ENDS

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