Checks and balances: the role of managers in work-life balance policies and practices

The paper explores WLB in the UK retailing, tourism and finance sectors in drawing from and extending WLB research funded by a national UK organisation with interests in equal opportunities. In order to gain different perspectives on the development and implementation of WLB policies, the research design comprises a series of interviews with senior managers, line managers and individuals who have direct experience of WLB practices. The key findings in terms of the role of managers in WLB policies and practices are reported. The first principal finding is that managers evidently contribute to the development of WLB policies. The second is that managers apparently play a pivotal role in translating WLB policies into practice and in ensuring there are appropriate checks and balances in the management of such practices.