Construction firms can now benefit from free consultancy advice to improve their employees鈥� work-life balance.
Alan Johnson, employment relations minister, last week announced the launch of the fourth round of the DTI鈥檚 Work鈥揕ife Balance Challenge Fund. The fund, established in March 2000, has a budget of 拢10.5m to help firms provide their staff with a better balance between their work and home lives, such as flexible working patterns and locations, and benefits such as childcare.

The DTI is keen to receive applications from firms working in the construction sector, including small businesses. The deadline for receipt of applications is 8 March. You can find details of how to apply, as well as downloadable application forms, at www.dti.gov.uk/work-lifebalance.