John Cridland, director of HR policy at the CBI, has been promoted to deputy director-general. Cridland, who is a regular contributor to Personnel Today and is on its advisory board, will have a wider brief, while retaining his interest in employment issues. HR will report to him and he will remain on the boards of the Low Pay Commission and Acas. Susan Anderson will become director of HR policy.
Work-life cash share
Employers are invited to submit bids for a share of a £1.5m fund to explore work-life balance options. The DfEE has set up the fund to pay for advice from consultants on how employers can increase flexibility for staff while supporting business objectives. Application packs are available at www.dfee.gov/work-lifebalance or call 020-7273 5626.
Dealing with bullies
The London Chamber of Commerce has published an employers’ guide on bullying and harassment. It estimates that 19 million working days are lost each year as a result of bullying at a cost of £2bn. The guide identifies different types of bullying and suggests ways of tackling the problem. For a free copy call 020-7203 1871.
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GPs win praise
Hospital staff and GPs provide the best service to customers while train operators provide the worst, a National Opinion Poll has found. The survey of 1,002 people put hospitals and GPs at the top, closely followed by supermarkets. Train operators give customers the worst service, the survey found, along with local councils, then banks and credit card companies.
