Abstract
This interactive panel session will debate current controversies in work-life balance (WLB) research and practice. Leading experts from different disciplines, and practitioners and employers and representatives of not-for-profit organisations with an interest in the field will participate. In the UK, in particular, the topic of WLB has become increasingly popularised and confounded with lifestyle issues, with “tips” and “advice” provided from a wide range of sources that are not necessarily informed by sound evidence. Current debates are also highly polarised, with firm “positions” being adopted by different stakeholders such as trade unions, employers and HR professionals. There is a strong need to review and debate issues fundamental to WLB research from the perspectives of various stakeholders in order to achieve the aim of developing inclusive and workable interventions to help employees manage the work-home interface more effectively.