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Report Reveals Working Parents Facing Increased Stress

Jan 22

2 min read

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man with  hands on woman's shoulders

 

The challenges of balancing work and family life have reached new heights, with many working parents facing mounting stress. According to the Modern Families Index 2025, released by Bright Horizons, a staggering 29% of working parents report feeling "very stressed" as they juggle professional responsibilities and family obligations. The report highlights significant concerns about declining employer support for family life, making it a critical issue for organisations worldwide.


The Stress Epidemic Among Working Parents


The study, which surveyed 3,000 working parents, found that stress levels are notably higher among women (32%) compared to men (26%). Meanwhile, only 18% of respondents reported experiencing very low stress levels. For many, this stress directly impacts productivity, with 80% of those reporting high stress admitting that it interferes with their ability to concentrate at work.


Declining Employer Support


One of the report’s most alarming findings is the decline in perceived employer support for family life. Compared to its peak in 2023, employer support has dropped by nearly a third. This trend coincides with rising concerns about workplace demands: 70% of working parents worry about increased expectations to return to the office.


The Role of Childcare and Caregiving


Childcare disruptions remain a key stressor, affecting 65% of men and 62% of women in the workplace. Moreover, caregiving responsibilities for adults have a similar impact, with nearly 80% of both men and women in caregiving roles reporting work disruptions. These challenges underscore the need for comprehensive support systems, particularly as families navigate complex caregiving dynamics.


Flexible Working: A Missed Opportunity


The report indicates a decline in flexible working options compared to pre-pandemic levels. Currently, 20% of working parents state their roles do not permit flexible arrangements, doubling from 10% in 2024. Despite evidence showing flexible working reduces stress and boosts productivity, gaps persist.


With the UK’s Employment Rights Bill aiming to promote default flexibility, parents favour options like flexitime (57%) and flexible work environments (43%). Younger employees, especially those aged 18-34, remain particularly concerned about stricter return-to-office requirements.


Commentary


Organisations should view family-friendly policies as both a strategic advantage and a compliance necessity. Flexible working arrangements not only align with evolving legal frameworks, such as the UK’s Employment Rights Bill, but also help mitigate legal risks related to workplace discrimination and equality. Providing childcare support and fostering a culture that prioritises work-life balance can enhance employee retention and morale. By proactively adopting these measures, employers can reduce potential disputes while cultivating a productive, engaged, and legally compliant workforce.


 

Call a specialist employment lawyer  


Magara Law is an employment law firm in Bicester, Banbury, Reading and Paddington, London, and services clients nationwide. For more information or to contact our employment law team at Magara Law, call 01869 325 883 or email roy@magaralaw.co.uk.





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