Prime minister''s flexible benefits hints ''are laudable''

A parenting organisation has said David Cameron''s claims that he wants to make working more family-friendly - which could include a focus on flexible benefits - are laudable.

However, according to the Family and Parenting Institute, there is a "considerable distance" to go before employers offer adequate support to parents.

Chief executive Dr Katherine Rake made the comments as the organisation published its annual report card, which grades the government''s performance in relation to the support it gives families.

Britain was awarded a D grade in the study for its approach to providing affordable housing, keeping the cost of raising a child fair and looking after the elderly.

However, there was a more positive B grade for work-life balance in the report.

"The previous Labour administration got many things right on family policy, but [it] failed to fully prioritise families in the way they deserve," Dr Rake remarked.

She added that the coalition government has a "special opportunity" to help parents to thrive.

Introducing legislation to support the implementation of flexible benefits could be one tactic Mr Cameron could look at.

Useful flexible benefits may include personally-tailored hours and increased paternity and maternity leave. Back