More holiday - but do we want it?
Trade unions and the FSB back the increase in annual leave, but a survey suggests it may be more trouble than it's worthWith a view to giving UK workers the same holiday rights as those in the rest of the EU, from this October the minimum holiday entitlement for full-time employees will increase from 20 to 24 days a year – and rise to 28 in April 2009. Every worker will welcome the new regulations – or will they? And how might it affect businesses?
The government, naturally, has nothing but good things to say. Jim Fitzpatrick, employee relations minister at the Department for Trade and Industry, said: “This extra time off will make a real difference in the lives of hard-working people.
“Businesses will benefit too, from reduced absenteeism and a workforce who are more motivated and productive.” The British Chamber of Commerce and the Trades Union Congress also signalled their approval.
The Federation of Small Businesses is “fairly relaxed” on the new regulations, said a spokesman. “Our only remaining concern is that the government has not carried out a robust-enough impact assessment to see how this will hit businesses.”
Only Investors in People brought a note of doom and gloom to the proceedings. Their survey showed that 51 per cent of workers work extra hours before taking annual leave, and one in six feel stressed that work wouldn’t be done properly in their absence. A spokesman said: “It’s important that employees have confidence in their employers and colleagues to handle things effectively while they’re away.”
Now even more professions on INScribe
INScribe, Hiscox’s online quote tool, just keeps getting better. You can now quote professional indemnity insurance to 27 professions online in minutes. These include accountants, estate agencies, expert witnesses, food stylists, life coaches, photographers, proofreaders and translators – to name just a few. What’s more, office contents insurance can be bought alone and doesn’t have to be one of the listed professions. It’s all aimed at making your job easier – and we’re not stopping there.
Until 31 December, every time you make a Commercial sale using INScribe, you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win a seven-night holiday in China for you and a friend.
To learn more about INScribe, call your Hiscox underwriter or visit www.hiscox.com/inscribe