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.
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.
Parent power: parents are prepared to use their vote for a better deal
Our recent polling has found that the voice of parents could be crucial at the next general election.
Opening conversation: the first APPG meeting on Flexible and Family-Friendly Working focusses on women at work
Another step along the road to a national conversation about flexible working was made with the first meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Flexible and Family-Friendly Working, which took place with a discussion on how flexible working can help women progress in the workplace.
I am, and I belong
For International Women's Day 2024, we look at what employers can do to cultivate a sense of belonging, and what action we can take as individuals in the work environment to value and celebrate difference.
Uniting generations: supporting and strengthening an age-diverse workforce
Our webinar on how to support and strengthen an age-diverse workforce was a fascinating watch, with insights on ensuring every age group has what they need to thrive in the workplace.
Looking ahead to 2024: A year of change and uncertainty
Whilst the legislative changes mark a step forward in removing the barriers parents and carers face in the workplace, their impact is yet to be felt. In the coming year we’ll be able to ascertain what real world difference they are making, and also whether the major political parties are willing to commit to meaningful change in their 2024 local and general election manifestos.
Meet the Employer Services Team
We often say that people are an organisation’s best asset, and that is certainly the case with Working Families. So we thought we’d put our Employer Services team under the spotlight for a change, so everyone can get to know them a little better.
Reaching the top: How ‘Working Families Top Employers’ break the mould
Sometimes, we’re all working so hard, that it’s hard to know what’s working. Step forward the Working Families Benchmark. The Benchmark is a tool that measures four key areas to assess how well employer’s policies and practices support parents and carers in the workplace. And only the best of the best are awarded the accolade of Top Employer.
The chance to make a change: the Autumn Statement policies that could make a difference to families
We believe that the upcoming statement is a real chance for change. We have submitted a briefing to the government that puts forward policies to help parents and carers alleviate financial pressures and navigate the ongoing cost of living crisis.