Speaking at an event to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sex Discrimination Act, Ms Baillie said the Scottish Executive is still seeking ways to improve opportunities for women. But she said there had been many advances since the introduction of the Act, including significantly greater childcare measures allowing women to take up employment or training. Almost every four-year-old and 68 per cent of eligible three-year-olds are now receiving grant-funded pre-school education in Scotland. Fathers also now take a more active role in childcare.
During the past 25 years the gap between the proportion of women and men in the labour market has fallen from 30 per cent to 11 per cent and the percentage of women executives has risen dramatically. Employment law now includes the right for both parents to take time off, albeit unpaid, after the birth of a child or if their child is unwell, and there have been improvements to maternity rights.
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
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
