The business case for gender parity through enhanced family leave policies

“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.”

For employers, managers, and leaders.

As decision-makers, you have the power to push for policies that allow all new parents to take parental leave — and the power to initiate the cultural shift necessary to encourage men to take advantage of parental leave entitlements. Take parental leave yourself, tell others about your brain training, and set an... See more

“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

Joeli Brearley, CEO and founder of Pregnant Then Screwed, comments, “We finally have evidence that boosting paternity leave will reduce the gender pay gap, improve the health of both parents and it will benefit the economy. Paternity leave is not a luxury but a necessity.’’ When fathers and partners take paternity leave, it supports the mother’s re... See more

While offering paid leave and building a culture that supports it may come at an added cost to employers, the fathers we spoke with showed how it can also increase employee engagement and retention. According to McKinsey research on how leaders can improve employee experience post-COVID-19, companies should target the smallest possible groups, incl... See more