The right to time off for dependants : Contrasting two organisations’ responses

Purpose – To examine the factors which influence the implementation of employees’ right to time off for dependants protected by the Employment Relations Act 1999. Design/methodology/approach – The responses of two organisations in the same corporate group with identical policy provision are examined. Formal provision in the two companies was broadly similar providing an opportunity to examine how centrally developed, statutory‐based policy operates in different organisational contexts. Using qualitative reports from line managers and human resource managers the interaction and tensions between formal policy and informal, discretionary practice are examined. Findings – Line manager attitudes to discretionary decision making and other company policies, especially flexitime, produced very different outcomes for employees highlighting a continuing challenge for governments and organisations: Is it more important to be consistent in implementation or responsive to individual circumstances? Research limitations/implications – The paper uses data from only two organisations, although it complements national research on the usage rates of parents’ statutory rights to leave. Practical implications – Factors which can influence and detract from the effective implementation of statutory‐based employment rights are highlighted. Originality/value – In focusing on parent's right to time off for dependant emergency an important element of the work‐life balance field is examined.