This paper reports the implementation of family friendly policies in three pro
gressive New Zealand companies. 'Family friendly' policies and practices aim
to make work and family responsibilities easier to manage. Policies that were
being implemented in the companies went little further than statutory obli
gations. Childcare was a major need of employees which was not provided by
the companies. Information about available policies was not well communi
cated through all levels in the organizations. Supervisor knowledge and
understanding was key in effective implementation for employees. Major bar
riers to implementation were senior management attitudes, issues of equity
and organizational culture. Recommendations are made on how to improve
access to policies throughout the companies.
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