Working mothers are becoming more stressed, as the number who believe their employer supports family life is down by almost a third.
Bright Horizons Community and Workplace Nursery, the provider of community and workplace childcare, has released the Modern Families Index for 2025.
The survey, which surveyed 3,000 working parents annually, found that 29% felt very stressed. This included 32% women and 26% men. Only 18% working parents reported low levels of stress. Only 18% of working parents reported very low stress.
The data from the last five years show the stark difference between highs and lows in employer support. The index has been on a steady decline since 2023 when it reached its peak.
Seven out of ten working parents are concerned about the impact that increased expectations surrounding returning to work could have.
Jennifer Liston Smith, Bright Horizons’ head of thought leadership, stated: “In light of the sustained financial and international challenges, it is clear that employers are increasingly focused on operational productivity and cost management.
This year’s report shows that employees are feeling this shift. Ironically, the impact will be seen through lost productivity and attrition. All of these increase costs for employers.
“Sixty five per cent of men, and 62% women, reported that childcare problems affected their work. For those who had adult care responsibilities, 89% of men, and 79% of women, were also affected. If employers shift their attention away from practical support, they are likely to have a negative impact on work outputs.
Although there is greater flexibility today than pre-pandemic days, the findings of this year compared with 2024 show a decrease in overall flexibility. Also, respondents are more likely to say that their employer or role does not permit flexible working. Over twice as many respondents as last year report that they work less flexiblely than a year earlier. 20% of respondents say their employer or job does not allow flexible working (2024: 10)
The survey asked, “What flexible working initiatives, if any would you like to see your employer offer?”.
The two most popular flexible work options are “flexitime”, (57%) and “flexible workplace”, (43%). Seventy-five percent (75%) among those between 18 and 34 expressed some concern about an increase in the number of people returning to office. 68% of respondents felt the same.
Subscribe to our weekly HR news and guidance
Every Wednesday, receive the Personnel Today Direct newsletter.
Human Resources Director Opportunities on Personnel Today
Find more HR Director jobs
