Ryan FowlerLondon workers are increasingly considering practical benefits such as childcare support and meal vouchers when making career decisions, according to new findings from international recruitment firm Robert Half.
Its latest Salary Guide shows that 43% of professionals in the capital would be influenced to stay with an employer or accept a new role if on-site childcare provision were available.
The report highlights growing demand for family-friendly support as nursery fees continue to rise.
With the National Day Nurseries Association reporting a 15% average increase in nursery costs earlier this year, many workers are placing greater pressure on employers to help balance work and family responsibilities.
Meal vouchers have also become a significant incentive for workers in London.
Robert Half found that 64% of professionals said access to meal vouchers would influence their decision to move jobs, reflecting the impact of high food prices and rising lunchtime costs across the capital.
Phil Boden, market director at Robert Half, said: “Our latest data shows a clear shift in what London professionals value most from their employers.
“With rising costs continuing to impact households, employees are looking beyond traditional pay rises for benefits that deliver real, everyday support.
“Meal vouchers, for example, are no longer seen as a nice-to-have, they’re becoming a deciding factor for nearly two-thirds of workers in the capital.
“This reflects a growing need for practical solutions that help ease financial pressures and improve quality of life.
“At the same time, childcare support remains a priority, particularly as nursery fees rise. For working parents, access to on-site childcare can make the difference between staying in a role or seeking new opportunities.
“These findings underline a broader trend: perks that were once considered optional are now essential for attracting and retaining talent.
“Employers who invest in these benefits demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee wellbeing. In a competitive market, this approach doesn’t just help businesses stand out, it builds loyalty, engagement, and resilience across the workforce.”
According to Robert Half, combining childcare support with cost-saving measures such as meal vouchers provides immediate, tangible benefits for employees and can strengthen employers’ attraction and retention strategies in a competitive labour market.
