Work-Life Programs on the Rise

Organizations are increasingly providing work-life programs, according to a survey by Mellon's Human Resources & Investor Solutions (hr.cch.com). Such programs respond to employees' needs for work-life balance and help them manage their personal and professional lives.

The survey found that

81% of employers offer employee assistance programs, up from 70% in 1996, when their last survey was conducted. About 35% of employers offer domestic partner benefits, compared to only 6% in 1996. In addition, 88% offer work-related tuition reimbursement, and 47% provide unpaid family leave beyond the required FMLA leave.

Over the past two years, about half the respondents increased the number of work-life programs, and only 5% decreased the number. Employers say that work-life programs and policies help them recruit and retain good workers, while raising morale in the workplace, leading to greater productivity.