The business case for gender parity through enhanced family leave policies

‘Well, it’s the usual suspects: Iceland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden. The countries where childcare is properly subsidised, where ring-fenced, properly paid paternity leave means dads are far more likely to take time out to care for their children, and flexible working is the norm for all employees. In these countries, mothers report far higher levels

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“From an employer perspective, I think it is important to equalise parental leave. By this, I mean that employers should ensure mums are not the sole focus of childcare policies – there should be a greater emphasis on joint parenthood.”

“There are plenty of benefits to SPL. Aside from the benefits to children of both parents spending time with their newborns, from an employer and economic perspective, you want good employees to return to the workplace quickly. And you want a diverse workplace. A situation where women are primarily responsible for childcare and fathers do not take ... See more

There seems to be snowballing evidence that providing flexibility at workplaces, having access to paid leave, helps everybody, and it helps women, perhaps more than anybody else.

Not only in providing them what they need, but in providing opportunities for men to do more at home, for men to be more engaged.

1. Great candidates for your company

According to Koru Kids research, 3 in 5 fathers and non-birthing partners said a substantial paternity package would be a key factor in looking for a job. They probably aren’t being vocal about this to you - but if you don’t advertise a good paternity (and maternity!) package, you’re almost certainly missing out ... See more