Small firms encouraged to support stranded employees

The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has urged small business employers to be as flexible as possible with stranded employees, following the volcanic eruption in Iceland.

Last week, flights in and out of the UK were brought to a standstill after a cloud of ash from an Icelandic volcano spread across UK skies. The delays have had serious consequences for businesses of all sizes across the UK, Europe and other countries around the World.

The FPB are suggesting that small businesses need to remain in regular contact with staff members who are unable to return to work and consider flexible working, if this is a feasible option.

Ross Meadows, the FPB's employment advisor, commented:

"The key thing is to keep in touch so you have the fullest information possible about your employees and their travel situation.

"Obviously it's not their fault that they are unable to make it to work so it's down to an employer's discretion whether or not to offer paid leave, at least up to a point."

22/04/10