Family squeeze: a series

A conference series called Family Squeeze, hosted by the Center for Law and Social Policy, starts tomorrow, January 28.

Friday's topic: Right to Request Flexible Work: U.K. Emerging Lessons; it runs from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm, eastern time.

In 2003, a law went into effect in the U.K. that gives parents have a legal right to request flexible work. But just because employers must consider requests for flexible schedules, has there been an increase in workplace flexibility? Panelists will also consider the ramifications for parents, and if the United States is considering similar laws.

The series will focus on several good and bad aspects of work and family.

Work is a double-edged sword. It can bring enormous benefits—income, self-esteem, stability. But the joust comes with costs. An imbalance between work and life can be unhealthy—both for the worker and the worker’s family. Businesses need healthy workers and, increasingly, employers are seeking new ways to provide a balance between work and life. Families are often squeezed in other ways, particularly when there is too little or no work and when federal and state budget cuts drain funding for vital work supports that help families keep a balance. This audio conference series explores the squeeze on families, particularly low-income families, and looks at ways to restore a healthy balance. Join in the calls and hear guests Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco (D-LA), along with a host of policy experts.

(Thanks to Half Changed World for pointing me to this series).