New analysis shows fewer than half of FTSE100 open about parental leave policies, as Mumsnet campaign calls on Government to force publication

Mumsnet, the UK’s largest forum for mothers, has called on the Government to follow through on their commitment to require large companies to publish parental leave policies, as new analysis shows that just 38 of the FTSE100 publish the relevant information.

By Sophia Carlton | Last updated Aug 22, 2024

Mumsnet’s #PublishParentalLeave campaign was first launched in 2019 in response to concerns from users that asking about maternity policies at interview would jeopardise their chances of a job offer. At the time, fewer than a quarter (23) of the FTSE100 published their policies.

The Government consulted on the idea of making publication mandatory and in "Making Flexible Work the Default", published in 2021, they reported that the idea was supported by a majority of respondents. However, with the Employment Bill no longer tipped for inclusion in May’s Queen’s Speech and other commitments around employment and flexible working shelved, Mumsnet is calling on the Government to take action.

Mumsnet founder and CEO, Justine Roberts, said:

“Publishing parental leave is a small, cost-free change for businesses that encourages a race to the top for employers, helps tackle the gender pay gap and allows potential employees to make informed decisions about their future. It's welcome news that increasing numbers of employers are publishing their policies, but given how significant this information is, the pace of progress is far too slow, and it's baffling that so many companies still make it so difficult to find. The Government must now act to make sure all employers do the right thing”.