Blog
Welcome to our blog where we explore news, policy developments and best practice ideas relating to how parents and carers can fully meet their work and caring responsibilities, and how their employers can best support them.
In the interests of open debate and the exploration of new ideas, any views expressed here may not necessarily represent the formal view of Working Families.
Navigating childcare challenges – Hayley’s story
Hayley tells us about the childcare challenges she has faced in returning to work after having her little boy.
Caring Aloud – Johanna’s story
In the next of our Caring Aloud series we hear from Johanna, who talks honestly about how tough life can be when you’re caring for a disabled child, and how a lack of suitable childcare has prevented her from being in work.
Caring Aloud – Andrew & Joanne
In the next in the Caring Aloud series, we hear from Andrew, one of our Parent and Carer Advisory Panel members. He talked to us about the struggles he has faced in finding employment that fits around caring, and how his experiences have mobilised him into action to make positive change for carers.
Postnatal depression: what you need to know when returning to work
For some women, being back at work can aid recovery but for others, they’re not able to return to work for some time. Our helpline regularly takes calls from women suffering from post-natal depression who worry about their return to work.
100 Days of New Government: Working Families’ hopes for working parents and carers
With the leaflets now recycled, the polls firmly closed, and a new government in place, Working Families are looking ahead to what we would like to see the new government deliver in its first 100 days.
Families want a reliable, affordable childcare system – the next government must prioritise that if it wants to boost the economy
In recent years we’ve seen childcare reform climb the political agenda, and quite rightly. Not only does childcare support parents to work today, but it also provides vital early education that supports children to develop into the citizens of tomorrow, something we all have a stake in.
One million supported by our Legal Advice Service last year
This year, Working Families’ Legal Advice Service marks a significant milestone – empowering parents and carers for a quarter of a century. In that time, we’ve been a lifeline for those in times of need, coming to the rescue of thousands during the uncertainty of the pandemic, and providing guidance to people every day who are desperate and have exhausted other avenues.
Caring Aloud – Margaret & Iwan
For the first in our Caring Aloud series we spoke with Margaret, who is a member of our Parent and Carer Advisory Panel. She talks openly about the challenges of being a carer and navigating work, as well as the unexpected joy her role has brought.
Carers Week 2024: It’s time to claim power for carers
Despite the importance of embracing the ‘carer’ label, many people choose not to take up the term, even when their circumstances fit the definition.
Trustee Viewpoint – Paul’s Story
"I love being part of an organisation which is so focused on helping to achieve the things that my mum didn’t have and which so many still don’t have. I hope I help in some small way by recognising the vast improvements that I benefitted from, and by helping continue the journey."
‘Caught in the middle’: how middle-income families are managing the rising cost of living
An insecure jobs market, high housing and childcare costs are all contributing factors which have led to a growing number of middle earners struggling on household incomes of up to £60,000.
Get ahead: Flexible and Family-Friendly policies happening this Spring
This April, several changes are happening that will impact the lives of working parents and carers. Get ahead by getting to know what the changes are, so you can support parents and carers in your organisation.