New study to explore whether hybrid working is widening gender pay gap

Published: 28 Apr 2026

A new study is exploring whether hybrid working is widening the gender pay gap for parents.

Led by Dr Naomi Finch from the University of York, the research is investigating how parents combine hybrid working with childcare, and whether the approach deepens existing gender inequalities.

The project is funded by the Nuffield Foundation and involves charities Coram Family and Childcare and Working Families.

Dr Finch said:

For many parents, combining work with caring responsibilities may feel like the only viable option, even if it comes at a cost to their health and wellbeing or career progression.

Despite growing anecdotal evidence, there is still limited understanding of how families are managing hybrid work and childcare in the post-pandemic world, and which arrangements work best.

Research suggests hybrid work could reinforce traditional gender roles, with mothers shouldering more care duties – often at the expense of sleep and free time.

The study will also assess whether recent UK Government reforms, such as expanded nursery provision and free breakfast clubs, are helping parents balance hybrid work and childcare more effectively.

Dr Finch added: 

It will be vital to understand how these measures influence parents’ decisions about work and care, and whether they reduce or reinforce existing inequalities.