The Fund was established in March 2000. Successful applicants will receive free advice worth up to £55,000 from specialist consultants to support them in developing innovative working arrangements which benefit their business, their employees and their customers. It is open to all employers in England and Scotland in the private, public and voluntary sectors. The deadline for applications is Friday 8th March 2002 At Watford's Vicarage Road ground, Alan Johnson said: "We want more organisations to aim for the top of the league when it comes to helping staff balance their work and home life more effectively. Any company that offers its employees a better balance between work and home reaps the rewards of increased job satisfaction among the workforce, reduced staff turnover and higher productivity. It's a winning strategy that benefits employees and employers alike."