Working parents more likely to move job the more senior they are

Seven in 10 parents in senior roles are looking for new roles, according to a large-scale survey, which finds that the more senior people are the more likely they are to be seeking to move jobs.

Bright Horizons’ annual Modern Families Index Spotlight Report surveyed 3,000 working parents and found four in 10 are looking for alternative employment, compared to seven in 10 in senior roles. Help with the cost of living is the top reason for staying in a role (41%).

But there is good news on flexible working: 67% of working parents now believe career progression is possible when flexible working is offered and their confidence is building at speed (in 2022, 56% said flexible working would allow them to advance in their careers).

When it comes to demand for flexibility, childcare is the key driver of this for almost half (47%) of the working parents surveyed. The report also showed over three quarters of working parents (76%) said they have had to take a day or more off work unexpectedly to meet childcare requirements.

Parents think more support is needed from Government – 90% said the Government should do more to support working parents, although they felt employers should provide better and more family-friendly benefits.

Another key finding is that dads are seeking support and recognition for their increased hands-on parenting.

Nevertheless, the survey showed that working parents feel they are able to discuss family issues at work.  Seven in ten (71%) feel confident discussing family-related issues with their employer, and three in four (77%) described their employer as supportive of family.

Denise Priest, Executive Director Work+Family Solutions at Bright Horizons, said:  “The research demonstrates how working parents value help from their employers in dealing with some of the stresses they’re currently facing – from the increasing cost of living, to balancing work and home life demands.

“This year’s report also includes insightful and practical suggestions for forward-thinking employers who recognise this and see the benefit of taking practical steps that will help to set themselves apart in a competitive market for attracting and retaining talent.”

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