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Arena Magazine 2005 Issue 4 |
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Spotlight on working parents
The pressures faced by working parents will be the theme of the next Spotlight Day in September with issues like childcare, flexible working and family-friendly policies top of the union’s agenda.
The Supporting Parents and Carers campaign has tapped into the real-life experiences of Usdaw members across the UK and September 7 will be no exception.
One family backing the campaign will be the Clewlows from Knottingley, Wakefield. Anna works part-time at the local Moto service station, while Anthony works full-time at a distribution centre. Between them they juggle work and bringing up their two children.
"By the time I get to work, I've dropped off Antonia at my mum's and Steven at nursery," said Anna. "It is hard work and sometimes the pressures do get to me. It's difficult keeping all the balls in the air, especially if you've had no sleep the night before!
"Thanks to Usdaw I found out about my right to request flexible working. My employer has been very accommodating and I'm grateful for that.
"I'm like most mothers. I would have loved to have stayed off for 12 months with Antonia, but my maternity pay stopped after six months so I had to go back to work. Yes, there are times when I think - I don't want to go in today but then I remind myself - I have responsibilities at home and at work, so I keep going.
"I think most parents want to spend more time off with their children in the first year so I'm fully behind the union's campaign. Extending maternity pay to 12 months and giving working parents more flexibility at work are just two of the worthwhile ideas behind the campaign."
Women and Equalities Officer Ruth Cross believes Anna's case is typical. "It was clear from our survey that parents want more flexibility at work so they can spend more time with their young children," she said. "It's all about getting the balance right and that's where our campaign comes in.
"Like many of our members, Anna relies on close family for childcare. However, when this isn't available the pressures on working parents intensifies. Employers can retain loyal staff much easier if they support their workforce, so it's a win-win situation for everyone."
One more chance to get involved
- The third and final Spotlight Day on September 7 will put the spotlight on parents. You can get involved by speaking to your local rep, local Usdaw office or contact the Women and Equalities department on 0161 224 2804.
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