Government policies failing women on flexible working, says UNISON

Women on the frontline need increased support from government to make their working lives more manageable including control over when, where and how long they work, says UNISON today (Mon). On International Women’s Day today, the union – which represents more than a million female employees including in the NHS, social care and local government – says the pandemic has had an unequal impact on women, especially those with caring responsibilities. Analysis of a recent UNISON survey* of almost 47,000 female key workers including nurses, teaching assistants and council employees shows many feel on the brink of burn out trying to juggle both work and home commitments through the pandemic. Two fifths (40%) said they did not feel supported in their job during Covid and the majority (80%) of those who travelled into work feared they might bring the virus home to their loved ones. At the same time, more than half (54%) felt they were failing to spend enough quality time with their families. The findings revealed that 21% also perform a caring role for an adult, such as looking after partners or elderly parents, including those with serious health conditions like dementia or cancer. A greater ability to work flexible hours and from home where possible, would help them manage their responsibilities, says UNISON. UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said: “Women key workers have helped keep this country running during the Covid-19 crisis. This is often while supporti...
Source: UNISON meat hygiene - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: News Press release international women's day Source Type: news