parenting

Almost one-third of working parents have reported severe levels of stress, according to research by Bright Horizons Family Solutions.

The care provider’s latest Modern families index, for which it surveyed 3,000 working parents, revealed that of those respondents who reported high levels of stress, 80% said they find it hard to focus and 67% find it hard to function.

Around two-thirds of men and women, at 65% and 62% respectively, reported a childcare breakdown affecting work. For those with adult caring responsibilities, 79% of men and 80% of women were affected.

Three-quarters (73%) consider their employer’s support for family life before accepting or applying for a promotion or a new job, however the number of employees who say their employer is highly supportive of family life has dropped by 31%.

Meanwhile, seven in 10 have concerns about the potential impact of increased return-to-the-office expectations, coinciding with a 22% drop in the ability to work flexibly, compared with last year’s results.

Jennifer Liston-Smith, head of thought leadership at Bright Horizons, said: “Employers [that] shift attention away from practical supports are likely to see work outputs impacted. Most employers heightened their focus on wellbeing and work-life supports post pandemic, reaching a peak in 2023, before falling away. This steep and steady recent drop is a cause for concern. It’s time for businesses to re-visit their employee value proposition and the drivers of productivity if they wish to retain their talent and create an environment for sustained performance.

“Heading into 2025, a worrying number of working parents are sailing close to burnout. As well as the obvious concerns for their health and wellbeing, this is a big threat. Instead of hoping for the best amid these trends, employers can support return to office mandates by having childcare support in place along with flexible hours. Understanding the evolving work, home and financial pressures on working parents is essential and investing in realistic supports, even in a cost-conscious environment, makes business sense.”