High street chain Timpson has kicked off a debate after its boss went on social media to publicise the retailer's policy of giving its staff with children a day off on their kid's first day at school.
Chief executive James Timpson said on Twitter: "Our colleagues get an extra day off when their kids have their first day at school, so you may notice a different colleague in your local Timpson shop next week, helping cover for this important day in a family's life."
The Tweet attracted 42.9K likes and thousands of comments from people praising the business, which is regarded as having one of the best staff perks packages in the UK. Parents commenting on the Tweet even shared stories about how this bonus would have helped them if their employer had offered the same perk.
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@CalefateVia6 said: "I desperately needed this on my son's first day of school. He was inconsolable, made worse by having to be collected by a childminder. I cried the entire journey to work. I wish I'd taken the day off, but as a single mum working "freelance" I couldn't. You are wonderful."
Emma Williams wrote: "You are so kind. This would have meant so much to me when mine started school."
Lucy Griffiths added: "I love the ethos of your company. What a brilliant boss you are. Wouldn’t it be lovely if this was commonplace? Well done to James for being a thoroughly decent employer."
However, some on the platform were quick to criticise the policy saying it excludes those who don't have children. Some also questioned whether the company offered any perks for staff without families, sparking a debate amongst Twitter users.
Melanie Harvey said: "Great gesture but what about the childless people? What do they get a day off for? I guess they have to cover for the parents? Same as covering for maternity and paternity leave. Childless people always miss out."
Larne Tracey said: "I like this policy very cool. How do you compensate people who don’t have kids? At my company, I would not be rewarding people without kids? Or is this not factored in? I think it’s a very lovely idea."
Susan Mullen added: "Must admit, this crossed my mind too. I'd love to be a mum, sadly nature had other ideas. I've covered Christmases because others have kids, summer holidays, and watched people get parental leave. It's lovely but always felt a little unequal."
@craig0001uk wrote: "It’s no way to run a business! People that don’t have kids, are they allowed to take an extra day off then?"
The latest perk for Timpson staff comes just months after the business boss offered staff an extra week's holiday and £100 when they get married which also sparked a debate on social media. However, the reaction to the day off for parents remained mostly positive.
Twitter user Michael Esau wrote: "Another great example of a people-centred organisation. I absolutely love this. Setting a brilliant example for others to follow."
Penny Hajduk added: "What a kind, thoughtful, employer you are, James. I wish there were more people like you. In this insane country, it makes me feel better that there are people like you. Thank you."
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