Search Results for: work-life balance

Families struggle for work life balance despite changing gender roles

Families struggle for work life balance despite changing gender roles 0

by • Flexible working, Wellbeing, Workplace

Flexible working fatherA new report published today by the charity Working Families and nursery provider Bright Horizons suggests that parents are at greater risk of burn out as they strive for work life balance, with fathers at increasing risk as a result of their changing roles and expectations. The Modern Families Index is an annual study that explores how working families manage their work-life balance. This year’s report claims that nearly half (42 percent) of Generation Y fathers (born after 1980) feel burnt out most or all of the time, compared to just 22 percent of Gen Xers aged 36 to 45 and 17 percent of baby boomers aged over 45. The report claims that a growing number of fathers are now facing the same challenges and life choices most commonly ascribed to mothers. The study found that in half (49 percent) of the 1,000 couples surveyed, both parents were working full time. The figure rose to 78 percent for those in their twenties or thirties.

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Majority of UK workers happy with work life balance, claims report

by • News, Wellbeing, Workplace

work life balanceA new report from private bank Investec claims that three quarters of the UK’s professionals working in fields such as law, finance and healthcare are happy with the current balance between their work and personal life. The survey of 2,000 people suggests that just a quarter (25 percent) claim to be unhappy with their work life balance and a third (32 percent) say that their friends and family would describe them as ‘workaholics’. However, a third (33 percent) are also confident of an improvement in their work life balance over the next five years even though the same proportion also claim that the past five years have seen it decline since 2010. Workers in London are most optimistic despite the fact they are most likely to see themselves as workaholics with nearly half (45 percent) feeling optimistic about the future state of their working and personal lives.

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Survey into UK culture of overwork highlights need for better worklife balance

by • Knowledge, News, Workplace

UK culture of overwork highlights need for better worklife balance

A new study is published today which reveals how the UK’s long hour-culture is damaging family life, causing high stress levels, cutting time spent with loved ones and creating an inability to switch off from work. A survey of more than 1,000 working parents throughout the UK, commissioned by health cash plan provider Medicash, found that 83 per cent of working parents feel guilty about the amount of time they spend working, with 50 per cent saying it has a negative impact on relationships with their children, and almost half (45.9%), saying it caused problems in their relationship with their partner and caused them to neglect friends (25%).

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Global dissatisfaction with work life balance on the rise

by • Knowledge, News, Workplace

Report finds increasing dissatisfaction with work-life balance

More than one in four employees (27 per cent) at organizations that are not perceived to support work-life balance plan to leave their companies within the next two years, according to new research from Hay Group. At the same time, work-life balance concerns across the globe are on the rise, with 39 per cent of employees indicating that they did not have a “good balance” between work and personal life, compared to only 32 per cent who reported the same in 2011. “Organizations across the globe continue to ask their employees to ‘do more with less’, leading to increasing dissatisfaction with work-life balance,” said Mark Royal, senior principal at Hay Group Insight.

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How modern FNP programs prepare nurses for a changing workplace

How modern FNP programs prepare nurses for a changing workplace

by • Company news

The healthcare landscape is evolving faster than ever before. From the rise of telehealth to new models of patient-centered care, nurses today face a dynamic workplace that demands not only clinical expertise but adaptability, leadership and a commitment to lifelong learning. Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) programs are stepping up to meet this challenge and equipping nurses with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a changing environment.

Modern FNP programs recognize that healthcare is no longer confined to traditional hospital settings. Graduates may find themselves working in clinics, community health centers, telemedicine platforms or even corporate wellness programs. To prepare for these diverse roles, FNP programs emphasize flexible learning pathways that combine online coursework, simulations and in-person clinical experiences. This hybrid approach mirrors the evolving nature of the healthcare workplace itself where technology and adaptability are essential for success.

For example, a nurse pursuing an FNP program may complete a significant portion of theoretical learning online, allowing them to balance work, family or other commitments while still gaining essential knowledge. Clinical rotations in multiple healthcare settings ensure exposure to a wide variety of patient populations and workplace environments. This combination prepares graduates to adapt quickly and perform effectively no matter where they practice.

Bridging clinical expertise and leadership skills

Healthcare organizations today require practitioners who can make independent decisions, lead teams and coordinate care across multiple settings. Modern FNP programs integrate leadership training, evidence-based practice and interprofessional collaboration into their curriculum. Nurses graduating from these programs are not only clinically competent but also prepared to take on managerial roles, lead quality improvement initiatives and contribute to organizational strategy.

Leadership training often includes exercises in conflict resolution, team communication and project management. Students may participate in simulated scenarios where they lead a patient care team, making decisions under pressure while coordinating with physicians, nurses and support staff. These experiences build confidence and practical skills, ensuring graduates can navigate the complexities of modern healthcare workplaces.

Emphasizing technology and innovation

Digital transformation is changing healthcare delivery. Electronic health records, remote patient monitoring and telehealth platforms are now standard tools in many practices. FNP programs are adapting by incorporating training in healthcare technology, data analysis and telehealth. By familiarizing students with the tools they will use in practice, these programs ensure that graduates are ready to thrive in technologically sophisticated workplaces.

For instance, students may practice conducting virtual consultations or learn to interpret patient data from remote monitoring devices. They also gain skills in digital documentation, privacy compliance and cybersecurity, which are increasingly important when it comes to protecting sensitive patient information. By integrating technology into the curriculum, FNP programs produce graduates who are capable of improving efficiency and patient outcomes through innovation.

Prioritizing well-being and workplace resilience

The pandemic highlighted the critical importance of well-being in the healthcare workforce. Nurses are at risk of burnout due to long hours, high stress and the emotional demands of patient care. Modern FNP programs increasingly focus on self-care, stress management and professional resilience. By fostering emotional intelligence and coping strategies, these programs help nurses sustain long and demanding careers.

Courses may include mindfulness techniques, time management strategies and guidance on maintaining work-life balance. Mentorship programs provide additional support, helping students navigate the challenges of both education and professional practice. Graduates who have been trained to prioritize well-being are better equipped to manage stress, contribute positively to their teams and maintain high-quality patient care over time.

Preparing for the future of healthcare

Modern FNP programs aren’t just about clinical skills. They are about preparing nurses for a rapidly changing workplace that values flexibility, leadership and technological competence. Graduates are ready to meet the challenges of healthcare environments that range from traditional hospitals to community clinics, telehealth platforms and corporate wellness programs. They are equipped to support patient-centered care while also advancing organizational goals and improving workplace resilience.

Healthcare organizations benefit from hiring nurses trained in these comprehensive programs. FNP graduates bring advanced clinical knowledge, strong leadership capabilities and the ability to adapt to new technologies. They are prepared to implement evidence-based practices, mentor junior staff and contribute to innovations in patient care delivery. In short, FNP programs are shaping a workforce that is ready for the demands of modern healthcare.

Building a resilient healthcare workforce

The role of the Family Nurse Practitioner is now more important than ever before. Modern FNP programs prepare nurses to meet the needs of a complex and changing healthcare workplace by combining clinical expertise, leadership training, technological skills and well-being strategies. Graduates leave these programs ready to deliver high-quality care, lead teams and adapt to new challenges. For nurses pursuing advanced education and healthcare organizations seeking a resilient workforce, FNP programs provide the tools and training necessary to succeed in today’s evolving healthcare environment.

Employees on a four-day week use their extra day off for housework, hobbies, ‘me-time’ and moonlighting

Employees on a four-day week use their extra day off for housework, hobbies, ‘me-time’ and moonlighting

by • Flexible working, News, Workplace

New research claims to shed light on how employees who switch to a four-day week spend their additional day off – and some are using it to take on extra jobs.New research claims to shed light on how employees who switch to a four-day week spend their additional day off – and some are using it to take on extra jobs. As well as housework, hobbies and voluntary work, staff are also devoting time to education, caring responsibilities and side businesses that can sometimes compete with their main employment. The study, led by Dr Mengyi Xu, Dr Daniel Wheatley, Dr Holly Birkett and Professor Tony Dobbins of Birmingham Business School at the University of Birmingham, explored the experiences of employees, managers and executives at UK organisations using the ‘100:80:100 model’, where staff receive 100 percent of their pay while completing their workload in four days rather than five. (more…)

Return to office policies now more common, but raise people’s expectation of better workplaces

Return to office policies now more common, but raise people’s expectation of better workplaces

by • Flexible working, News, Property, Workplace

The news that Microsoft has introduced a formal hybrid working policy has sparked the usual pointless to and fro on social media about return to office policies, but it would seem for a growing number of firms and their employees, the debate is overThe news that Microsoft has introduced a formal hybrid working policy has sparked the usual pointless to and fro on social media about return to office policies, but it would seem for a growing number of firms and their employees, the debate is over. According to new global research from JLL, 72 percent of employees now view attendance requirements in a positive light, but this shift comes with heightened expectations for workplace quality, flexibility and wellbeing. (more…)

In spite of some headlines, hybrid working is not in decline in the US

In spite of some headlines, hybrid working is not in decline in the US

by • Flexible working, News

Gallup’s latest research on working patterns among remote-capable employees in the United States suggests that hybrid working is proving far more resilient than some headlines about a wholesale return to the office would implyGallup’s latest research on working patterns among remote-capable employees in the United States suggests that hybrid working is proving far more resilient than some headlines about a wholesale return to the office would imply. The data shows that hybrid work remains the dominant arrangement and has not significantly declined, even as political and organisational pressure grows to increase in-person attendance. The survey finds that just over half of employees who can work remotely are now in hybrid arrangements. This represents a slight decline from the previous two quarters, falling from 55 percent to 51 percent. (more…)

The power of play: how pool and table tennis can transform the workplace

The power of play: how pool and table tennis can transform the workplace

by • Company news, Wellbeing

While workplace wellness programmes and flexible policies have their place, one of the most simple and effective interventions is often overlooked: playWorkplaces are under growing pressure to support both productivity and well-being. Hybrid schedules, long desk hours and rising stress levels mean organisations are rethinking what the office should provide. While wellness programmes and flexible policies have their place, one of the most simple and effective interventions is often overlooked: play. Games like pool and table tennis may once have been dismissed as gimmicks, but today they are increasingly recognised as part of a serious workplace strategy. Far from being distractions, they support movement, collaboration, mental health and focus – all of which are critical in a modern knowledge economy. (more…)

How AI is already changing the world of work

How AI is already changing the world of work

by • AI, Comment, Workplace

AI is already changing the world of work, but not everybody is reacting to it in the same way, writes Laura AndersonAI is rapidly transforming the world of work. That much is clear. Understanding how different generations are adapting to this shift is therefore crucial for any organisation looking to the future.  Our recent study focusing on the generational differences in attitudes towards some of today’s biggest topics sheds some light on what might be driving these trends. Perhaps the most important finding was that nearly two-thirds of Gen Z feel concerned about AI’s impact on their future (only Baby Boomers reported more concern) – even though over half are still using AI day to day. (more…)

Milan proves to be the perfect setting for an optimistic BCO conference

Milan proves to be the perfect setting for an optimistic BCO conference

by • Comment, Property

Milan may not seem an obvious choice for the BCO conference. Turns out it was perfect for an increasingly optimistic sector, writes Anna KingIf anyone was asked to think of where to find the best examples of an office, I doubt very many people would reply ‘Milan’ but that may just be the reason that this year’s BCO conference was a resounding success. With Milan and its layers of history, culture, design and the vital ‘caffè’, we are reminded that workspaces are about so much more than function. A view certainly held by Amber Luscombe, Head of ESG at Oxygen, “This is my third BCO conference I was expecting more of the same, but the discussions have moved on with engaging speakers, stimulating conversations and a more positive – yet realistic –  outlook from the attendees. So many factors influence, surrounds and support good office design, from fostering a sense of belonging and community to wellbeing and nature and they were all on the table at Milan.” (more…)

Little evidence that hybrid working has encouraged high skilled people to relocate to cheaper regions

Little evidence that hybrid working has encouraged high skilled people to relocate to cheaper regions

by • Flexible working, News

the shift towards remote and hybrid working has not significantly changed where people live, nor has it helped to distribute talent more evenly across the countryA new report and series of policy briefings by a team of UK researchers suggest that the shift towards remote and hybrid working has not significantly changed where people live, nor has it helped to distribute talent more evenly across the country. Led by Professor Jackie Wahba OBE from the University of Southampton and Dr David McCollum from the University of St Andrews, the research was conducted by the ESRC Centre for Population Change and Connecting Generations, in collaboration with academics from the University of Birmingham, De Montfort University, and the University of the Arts London. The findings show that most remote workers continue to follow hybrid working patterns, splitting their time between home and the office while staying within commuting distance of major employment centres. This trend limits the potential to reduce regional inequalities or drive economic growth outside of London and the South East.

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