Research from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has revealed that a number of employers have made changes to the organisation of their operations and working patterns.

The survey, which was carried out in conjunction with recruitment firm Harvey Nash, found that firms in the UK and Northern Ireland are set to offer flexible working hours, extended shut-downs and holidays, as well as a reduction in paid overtime.

Almost two-thirds of firms have also frozen their recruitment plans across their entire organisation.

John Cridland, CBI deputy director-general, said one of the more positive aspects of the recession was the "commitment of many businesses and their staff to work together to try to trim costs and save jobs".

He added: "The UK's flexible labour market has proved a huge asset during these testing times, and flexible working changes have enabled employers and staff to create leeway on working hours."

Previous research released by the CBI earlier this month revealed that the credit crunch's grip on UK businesses is weakening.

Lyn Harris, Head of the Employment department at Wilson Nesbitt solicitors, commented that "businesses have been very conscious of trying to hold on to valuable employees even when the amount of work has not necessarily justified their current staffing levels. We have advised a number of companies in the province about how to implement temporary measures of job-sharing, reduced hours, working from home etc. and would remind all employers that these are very useful measures to take, but should only be done after obtaining legal guidance".
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