More than a third (37%) of working parents have changed jobs in search of greater flexibility, as 93% rely on some form of childcare, according to research by flexible workplace provider Work.Life.
Its survey also found 30% of respondents have reduced their working hours due to childcare costs.
The top priorities for a parent when choosing a job were found to be flexible hours (48%), salary (47%) and remote working (35%).
Respondents’ other priorities included subsidised childcare (21%), job security (15%), onsite childcare (14%) and increased parental leave (13%).
Just one-tenth (11%) listed commuting distance in their top priorities, while 5% said career progression and 12% cited a supportive organisational culture.
Some 16% said they had turned down promotions or additional work opportunities, and 64% said current free childcare provision does not meet their needs.
According to the research, this has resulted in 30% claiming they now have a reduced standard of living due to extent of childcare costs, leaving them with less disposable income.
In addition, (13%) said childcare is not available when required, 19% stated it has increased financial anxiety and stress, and 11% have decided against having more children due to the stress and financial pressures childcare has already caused.
The research also estimated that 32,000 UK parents deliberately capped their income below £100,000 during the 2023/24 tax year in order to retain access to childcare support.
Olya Yakzhina, head of people at Work.Life, said: “Our findings show that, despite recent changes, childcare costs are still causing parents significant financial pressures and stress. Working as a parent is difficult, and flexibility is something they rely on to be able to be parents. Employers have a real opportunity to make a difference by offering flexibility and practical support. Creating environments that work for parents is essential, because this unlocks further talent for roles. as well as retains current people employers have invested so much in.”
