Fathers would like to spend more time with their children
According to the latest survey, when fathers are looking for a new job or taking a promotion they firstly consider childcare. Nearly half of fathers would much prefer a less stressful job and spend quality time with their families. The report by Charity Working Families and Bright Horizons states that 38% of fathers would consider reducing their pay so that they could help with childcare.
Having a flexible approach to work can often damage father’s career prospects, many fathers try to balance work and family but feel they are being penalised. Many fathers work extra hours to help with their workload, however employers see this as part of their job, and this is often where the workplace can be blamed for not being flexible.
To help women and men balance work and childcare employers need to find a way to ensure women and men don’t feel penalised. It is suggested that government extend the period of paternity leave, but would this help?
What is paternity leave?
All fathers are entitled to one of two weeks off from work when they have a child. Father must have worked at the same employer for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the due date to qualify for these rights. Employees must notify employers when this leave is to be taken