Sackers joins UK certification for family-friendly workplaces

Sackers has become the latest employer to join the UK’s first certification scheme designed to raise the standards of family-friendly working. The initiative, run by Family Friendly Workplaces in partnership with the charity Working Families, assesses working practices using an evidence-based framework of best practice. This allows organisations to gauge their performance against global standards. By achieving the status of a certified Family Inclusive Workplace, Sackers has demonstrated its commitment to supporting the wellbeing of its staff and fostering an inclusive environment.

The legal profession has long been associated with long hours and high stress, with 83% of professionals reporting that they regularly work beyond their contracted time. Furthermore, 69% have experienced mental health challenges in the past year. Given the rising demand for flexibility in the workplace, many within the legal sector have begun to rethink traditional working practices. Research indicates that nearly half of legal professionals have contemplated leaving their jobs due to the struggles of balancing work and caregiving responsibilities. This shift highlights workplace culture as a vital business consideration.

As the scheme celebrates its first anniversary, it has garnered support from various legal firms, including founding partner TLT LLP and supporting partner Norton Rose Fulbright. Both firms have implemented working practices that allow their employees to flourish, consistently earning spots on top UK employer lists. Such backing underscores the belief that inclusive working practices can alleviate the mental load, significantly enhancing productivity while ensuring that individuals with caregiving responsibilities are not compelled to depart from the field. Ultimately, these measures enable parents and caregivers to realise their full potential and contribute to a more diverse and sustainable legal profession.

Jane van Zyl, CEO at Working Families expressed that "for too long, businesses have lacked a clear, evidence-based framework for what truly makes a workplace family-friendly. This certification changes that. By giving employers the tools to assess, improve and embed family-friendly policies, we’re helping to create workplaces where parents and carers can thrive at work whilst fulfilling their caring responsibilities. In turn, businesses will see higher retention, engagement and productivity, and create a culture where employees feel valued and supported.”