Infozone: the briefing – 30/07/10

RISE IN FEMALE BREADWINNERS

Almost one-third of women are the main breadwinners in their household, according to a survey by Grazia magazine. The Women and Work survey polled 2,000 women and found that 30% earn more than their partners, and a further 19% earn the same amount.

The survey said one reason for the rise of high-earning women could be that the recession has hit jobs that are usually held by men the hardest.

POSTCODE DISCRIMINATION "A MYTH"

The myth of so-called "postcode discrimination" in employment has been busted after Government research found no direct evidence of it occuring.

Anecdotal reports and previous research had suggested that employers could be using applicants' addresses as a shortcut to screen people from less desirable areas or housing estates. But research commissioned by the Department for Work and Pensions of employers, employment agencies and JobCentre Plus representatives found that, although statements made by some respondents suggested that postcode discrimination could be occurring, there was no direct evidence of this.

TAKE YOUR STRESS ON HOLIDAY

Technology is making it harder for employees to switch off on their summer break, with one-third admitting they work while on annual leave, a poll has revealed. A survey of almost 2,500 managers by the Institute of Leadership & Management also found that four in 10 return to work feeling more stressed than when they left.