A YEAR after government legislation gave working parents the right to request flexibility from employers, just over one third of Kent firms are offering flexible work options for full time employees.

The Lloyds TSB Corporate Business in Britain survey, found that flexible contracts and working hours are a major boon for businesses' staff retention.

The survey, which has been carried out since May 1992, received responses from 1,843 firms with a turnover above £1m.

More than one third of the businesses say the introduction of flexible working has improved staff morale and more than half say that being a bit more adaptable has helped them keep valued staff.

Sixteen per cent also claimed that providing work options improved productivity.

Bill Pike, relationship director for Lloyds TSB Corporate, said: "It is very encouraging to see that so many Kent firms now have established work options for staff.

“With competition for talent being so fierce, companies need to look for ways to be employees' first choice. Being a flexible employer can make the difference."

The survey showed that the number of firms that doubt the benefits of flexible working is nine per cent, but there are still practical issues which prevent companies embracing more worker-friendly policies.

Of businesses not currently operating flexible working policies, only two per cent put their reticence down to expense.

A further 21 per cent said they had too few staff to make it work, but the majority said it was because it would prove impractical for their business.

Bill Pike added: "Today's business environment demands high performance in the workplace.

"Flexible working can foster loyalty, motivation and effectiveness amongst employees that is crucial for business success. The major signs are that Kent employers see flexibility as help rather than hindrance."