One in five workers delay parenthood over parental leave fears

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 10:57 · Archive

A study of 2,000 employees found one in five workers are delaying parenthood due to concerns about workplace parental leave entitlements.

One in five workers are postponing parenthood because of concerns about workplace parental leave entitlements, according to a study of 2,000 employees. The research found that 67% of respondents said company benefits play a significant role in their decision about when to have children, and 78% said they would be more likely to start a family sooner if improved parental leave policies were available.

The cost of living (47%), achieving greater financial stability (47%), and childcare costs (40%) were cited as other major factors for delaying parenthood. The study also found that 68% of respondents believed that with adequate support from their employer, they could advance their career while being the parent they wish to be.

The research was commissioned by VodafoneThree. The company offers all birthing and adoptive parents up to 39 weeks of paid leave, and non-birthing parents up to 16 weeks at full pay. Staff returning from family-related leave can also work 80% of their contracted hours for 100% pay during their first six months back. VodafoneThree also provides flexible working arrangements including hybrid working and the option to work remotely for up to 20 working days annually.

How it is being reported

• One in five workers delay having children due to parental leave concerns, study findsNew research shows company benefits are important when deciding when to start a family, with the majority saying they would be more likely to do so sooner if better parental leave policies were in placeThe Mirror · 20 Oct, 10:33
• One in five workers delay parenthood due to workplace parental leave concernsNew study shows company benefits crucial in family planning decisions for employeesDaily Express · 20 Oct, 10:19

In this story: VodafoneThree · Katrin Jacke

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem