A new study has revealed widespread bias against those taking parental leave in the UK. One in six working parents felt their career opportunities reduced after simply requesting parental leave, according to the research conducted by Fertility Family.
Almost a quarter of employees (23%) said that the stress of work affected their ability to have children, confirmed the 2022 Parental Leave study. Three in five (57%) employees think their company’s parental leave policy and attitude to new parents is inadequate; with paternity leave for male employees (59%) and maternity leave for female employees (55%) both falling short.
One in six employees felt their career opportunities were constrained by management after they had communicated their plan to take parental leave. And almost one in 10 employees (9%) thought that management restricted their career progression after they took parental leave; this was experienced equally by both men and women.
The study also found that employees’ plans for starting a family were affected by parental leave policy; as well as wider issues within the workplace. For example:
- Almost a quarter of employees (23%) said that the stress of work affected their ability to have children.
- Over one in six (16%) delayed having children because of their career.
- One in 20 have turned down a job or not applied for a job directly because of the parental leave policy.
WHAT EMPLOYEES WANT
To move forward, companies must embrace new, flexible working models, confirm UK staff. Flexible working hours (45%) and remote working (45%) are the most popular ‘wants’ from employees; hoping for improved parental leave policy upon their return to work. Companies must also make it financially viable for their employees to take parental leave. A quarter (22%) of employees want their company to increase their rates of maternity/paternity pay.
“Those who feel supported by their employers, and are clear about what their entitlements are, will feel much more comfortable making plans to start a family. Employees who are unsure of their workplace’s policy can often feel disengaged and stressed; which may lead to them putting off plans to have children as they feel like they are not ready,” noted Gill McAteer, Director of Employment law at Citation. “Parental leave policies should be clear on employee entitlements and be available to everyone; with the aim of creating a supportive working environment. For employers looking to enhance their policies, they may consider adopting a family-friendly approach, with flexible or hybrid working; which would be well received by many of those who have families or are planning to do so.”
SUPPORT FOR WORKING PARENTS
Lucinda Quigley, Head of Working Parents at Talking Talent believes that the pandemic has led many people to re-examine their careers, futures and the way they want to work. “Any companies not offering the right support and company culture could find their high-talent individuals eschew them in favour of more forward-thinking firms; which will be disastrous for long-term company success,” highlighted Quigley. “Rather than backslide as offices reopen, now is the time for bold and honest conversations. Businesses must be ready to listen and create real change; especially given that the pandemic has changed people’s considerations about the companies they work for, whilst also shifting family priorities.”
The study conducted by Fertility Family, surveyed employees at 116 companies across the UK, to find out whether men and women felt parental leave was sufficient; and whether this impacted family life, family planning and careers. The full findings can be accessed here.
Check out the top 100 Best Workplaces for working parents here.
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