The report (PDF format, 4MB) (on the Official Documents website) says that other improvements include: the introduction of a range of flexible working options; an employee assistance programme; an on-site staff gym; healthier options in staff canteens; and a loan for staff wishing to purchase a bicycle.

But it's the introduction of the multi-faith and reflection rooms (basically prayer rooms by another name) that has been picked up on by the press (on the BBC website) and opposition politicians, who are as keen as ever to make a negative out of a positive. The BBC quotes shadow Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude:

"Have reflection rooms been set up in Downing Street to help the wellbeing of Gordon Brown's beleaguered and stressed staff or is the prime minister using them for his own use during troubled times?"

The Cabinet Office says that, although the facilities are mainly designed as prayer rooms, they are open to all members of staff, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

Provision for prayer rooms is covered in XpertHR's model policy on religious observance during working hours [subscription required]. Our policy recommends that prayer rooms be made available to all staff, whatever their religious beliefs or lack of beliefs.