Are women likely to be hit particularly hard by the current economic crisis?
Women tend to occupy more' flexible' jobs than men - will this mean that they will be the first to be laid off as the effects of the current financial crisis start to really kick in? In the past it has often been agency workers, part time staff, and generally those in the lower ranks who have suffered most during recessions. There is a lot of speculation going on that the banking disaster may lead to a change in the traditional City culture of long working hours and macho values, if this actually happens it could mean women will be prized for their flexible roles. Jane discusses these issues with Jill Kirby, Director of the Centre for Policy Studies, and Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee. |
