Demand for HR function 'robust' in slump

According to a survey done by Incomes Data Services (IDS) on HR functions, such as HR structures, pay and conditions etc., it is indicated that 35 per cent of HR departments have shed posts in the past year, a surprising 23 per cent have taken on more staff, while 42 per cent stayed constant. The research was based on the survey responses of 178 organizations, representing some 600,000 employees in total and over 7,000 HR staff. It also showed that at some places the downturn has actually led to more work and responsibility for HR, so despite the adverse situations staffing levels in most HR departments have remained robust.