Offering a flexible working alternative for every full-time post could prove unworkable for some roles, according to Tracy Burrell, HR manager at domestic appliance warranty provider Domestic & General, Nottingham.

Burrell’s comments follow a report in The Independent on Sunday, claiming that employers offering full-time vacancies at a jobcentre will soon to be requested to offer part-time, as a job-share or another variant of flexible working.

“I think that is exceptionally positive that the government is acknowledging that there is a need to accommodate people who require flexible working arrangements,” says Burrell.

“Having said that, to enforce that flexible working must be offered on every position that is advertised, may be stretching the limits in terms of whether a business can fulfil its own needs. For example, we are a 24-hour call centre and still need to ensure that we are meeting our business needs and providing our clients with a round-the-clock service. We have to ensure that our phones are manned all the time and this will often require someone in a full-time position.”