Working parents are calling for more flexibility in the workplace as a recent survey reveals that 40% admit to taking ‘sickies’ to care for their children. The study of 1,000 employed parents with children under the age of 16 found that 57% feel guilty about taking time off work to look after their sick children. Among the respondents, 80% are advocating for employers to provide more adaptable working arrangements to accommodate these needs.
Interestingly, the survey also showed that fathers were 15% more likely than mothers to provide false reasons for their absence to their employers. In contrast, mothers tended to rely more on grandparents for childcare help when their children were unwell. Rachel Ramsden, brand manager at Olbas, which commissioned the research, noted the strains that parents face when balancing work and family responsibilities, especially when dealing with illness within the family.
According to the findings, parents, on average, take three days off work each year to care for their children. However, it’s not just the children who fall ill – parents themselves also suffer, with common illnesses such as colds, coughs, and sore throats being passed on from their children. The study highlighted that 78% of parents find it takes longer to recover from illness when they do not take time to rest and recuperate properly, impacting their ability to return to work promptly.
NHS GP Dr Roger Henderson, who collaborated with Olbas on the study, emphasized the importance of listening to one’s body and taking time off when feeling unwell. Dr Henderson highlighted that early signs of illness, such as fatigue and headaches, should not be ignored, especially in the busy lives of working parents. He stressed that flexible and supportive work environments play a crucial role in helping parents balance their responsibilities while prioritising their health.
The survey shed light on the challenges faced by working parents who are constantly juggling work and family commitments, particularly when unexpected illnesses strike. Many parents feel pressured to call in sick to take care of their children, adding stress to their already demanding workloads. The findings underscore the need for more understanding and accommodating workplaces that can support parents in managing their work and family responsibilities effectively.
This study serves as a reminder of the difficulties faced by working parents in navigating the demands of their professional and personal lives. It highlights the necessity for employers to reconsider their policies and offer more flexibility to accommodate the needs of working parents. By fostering a supportive work environment that prioritises employee well-being, companies can help alleviate the challenges faced by parents striving to balance work and family life effectively.
In conclusion, the survey’s results clearly indicate the need for a more empathetic and flexible approach towards working parents in the workforce. It is essential for employers to recognise the challenges faced by parents in managing their children’s health concerns alongside their professional obligations. By offering adaptable working arrangements and understanding the pressures faced by working parents, companies can foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment for all employees.