Nursery World - 'Give new fathers choice of paid leave'

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) has called on the Government to end Britain's unequal parenting arrangements as new research reveals a 'social revolution' in attitudes towards fatherhood. Three-quarters of new mothers believe their partners are as confident as they are at caring for children and three-fifths reject the traditional view of fathers as the main breadwinners, according to an EOCsurvey.

Three-quarters of new mothers believe their partners are as confident as they are at caring for children and three-fifths reject the traditional view of fathers as the main breadwinners, according to an EOCsurvey.

But the EOC claims current parental leave arrangements prevent fathers from spending enough time with their children. New fathers receive just two weeks' statutory leave.

Jenny Watson, acting chair of the EOC, said, 'Most new mothers and fathers want to decide for themselves how they share leave, but without paid leave it is financially impossible for most to make that choice. Fair leave rights to fathers can only be achieved through shared parental leave, but transferable maternity leave would be a welcome first step.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included