Accountancy Firm introduces unlimited holiday for employees

Cardiff accountancy firm EST Accountants and Tax Advisers has introduced an unlimited holiday policy for its employees. Unlimited holiday is a relatively new concept with some large companies announcing that the employees will be able to take as much holiday as they want, whenever they want. Whilst offering unlimited holidays is not a current trend, flexibility in holidays is something that is on the increase.

“I wanted everyone in the team to be able to take time off when they feel they needed it,” said Barry Esterhuizen, Director of EST Accountants. “I hope that unlimited leave will make my business an attractive place to work and help with staff retention. The annual leave system is archaic and I want staff to have the freedom to plan their own time.”

For an unlimited holiday scheme to be successful, team members need to be highly self-motivated and have a clear understanding of the business’ goals and the link between their work and achieving those goals. Strong leadership and a positive culture are essential components, too.

“I’m hoping that the change will motivate and encourage the team to take more responsibility,” continued Mr Esterhuizen. “The policy has been well received by all; it’s very early days so will be interesting to see how it develops.” “We advise any firm considering introducing unlimited annual leave to think carefully about the impact it could have on the business before making a final decision,” said Kate Matthews, Director of HR and Employment for Greenaway Scott who advised EST on the policy implementation. “Consideration needs to be given as to whether authorisation is needed before any holiday can be taken and whether holiday will be tracked. The Working Time Regulations require employers to permit staff to take a minimum of 28 days, including public holidays, and if holidays are not recorded it may prove difficult for an employer to evidence that staff take their statutory holiday

entitlement.” The accountancy firm of chartered certified accountants and chartered tax advisers offer a complete range of services to companies, LLPs, partnerships and individuals.

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