Flexi-jobs and students help companies cope with labour shortages

Belgian companies are increasingly turning to alternative forms of employment to cope with labour shortages. On Wednesday, a survey showed that 17 per cent of companies in the healthcare sector are using the flexi-job system, while on Tuesday, Brussels Airlines announced it would be hiring students for its cabin crew.

The flexi-job system was introduced by the federal government in 2015 to combat undeclared work in the hospitality sector. It allows full-time workers and pensioners to legally work a second job. It has since been extended to many other sectors.

Almost two years after the government made it possible, 17 per cent of companies in the healthcare sector are employing people on a flexible basis, according to a survey by HR agency Acerta. The survey also shows that more than eight in 10 of these people are women and three in 10 are pensioners.

People with flexi-jobs perform tasks such as reception and bookkeeping, as they are not allowed to carry out caring tasks. This frees up medical staff and childcare workers, allowing them to concentrate fully on their caring duties.

Students join cabin crews

Meanwhile, the airline industry is experimenting with student jobs to solve labour shortages. Brussels Airlines announced on Tuesday that from next summer it will employ students on its flights.

The students will have to undergo the same training as regular cabin crew, but on weekends and during holidays, and will have to pass the same exams. They will also receive the same pay as regular employees, the airline said.

If the trial goes well, the students' work could be extended to every weekend, reducing the workload on permanent staff. "Permanent employees with children could then be home more on weekends and holidays," the airline says.

 

© BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM


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