Zarah ChoudharyThe Bright Horizons Modern Families Index UK Report 2025 revealed that nearly one-third (29%) of working parents and carers experience very high levels of stress – as 80% said that it makes it difficult to focus at work.
Employer support for family responsibilities has declined, with a 31% drop in parents stating that their employer is highly supportive compared to 2023.
The report, which surveyed 3,000 working parents with at least one child under 18, found that stress levels were particularly high among women, with 32% reporting very high stress compared to 26% of men.
In 2020, before the pandemic, 49% of parents rated their wellbeing as good or very good, but current trends indicate a worsening situation.
In 2023, 77% of parents and carers considered their employer supportive, but this has dropped to 68% in 2025.
The percentage of parents who considered their employer “highly supportive” has fallen from 29% to 20%, while the number of parents who described their employer as “unsupportive” has increased from 7% to 12%.
There has also been a 22% decline in parents and carers reporting that they have access to flexible working compared to last year.
The report noted that flexibility peaked in 2023 but has since declined.
More employees than last year said they have less flexibility in their role, and a growing number reported that their employer does not allow flexible working.
The most requested flexible working arrangements included flexible start and finish times, the ability to work from home some of the time, and a four-day working week.
More than half (51%) of parents reported worries about their children’s mental health, reversing previous post-pandemic improvements.
Concerns about social skills, educational development, and physical health have also risen compared to 2024, with parents of children under 11 particularly affected.
The report also highlighted the impact of workplace challenges on career progression.
Women felt less able to advance their careers while working flexibly, with only 65% believing they could progress, compared to 70% of men.
The report found that 35% of working parents considered leaving their job within the next year, rising to 37% among 18 to 34-year-olds.
Before accepting a new job or promotion, 76% of working parents said they consider childcare options, and 73% said they assess their employer’s family-friendly policies.
Carers of adults and elderly dependents also face challenges.
Among those with caring responsibilities, 38% planned to look for a new job in the next year, and 79% reported experiencing care breakdowns that conflict with work.
Only 19% of carers said they have used statutory carer’s leave and found it helpful, while 12% said it is insufficient for their needs.
The report highlighted a demand for financial support, help finding care solutions, and backup care.
