Public Servant Lifestyle

Forget personal pensions and company cars; sabbatical schemes could be the next big perk, according to new research.

A survey of employers? attitudes towards career breaks reveals them as the hottest HR topic, with three quarters (74%) of UK employers saying they would rather let a valuable employee take time out, than lose them altogether.

So eager are bosses to hold on to their willing workers, that nearly half questioned (44%) would actually pay some salary to their absent employees, to ensure their return.

Employers are also quick to spot the business benefits of allowing their workers to take career breaks:

Two thirds (66%) feel sabbatical schemes would help retain workers by showing employers? commitment to their staff

Almost six in ten (58%) say a career break could enhance employees? skills and experience

More than half (55%) say the option of a sabbatical would help prevent workers feeling tired and unmotivated

Indeed, almost a third (32%) of managers questioned say they would like to take a career break themselves, at some stage in their lives - although only 10% say they have actually already taken one.

Deirdre Bounds - from volunteer travel organisation i-to-i, which commissioned the study - sees this new research as extremely positive. She says: "This shows that many employers are moving with the wishes of their workers, and can see the benefits that a break can bring."

Rewards

The research also reveals some encouraging employer attitudes towards group sabbaticals to reward outstanding workers.

Some six in ten larger organisations would consider offering breaks or sabbaticals as part of their remuneration packages. Smaller employers are also jumping on the Corporate Social Responsibility bandwagon, with almost one in five (18%) saying they would use a corporate trip to reward their workers.

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