In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges parents face when returning to work after taking parental leave, particularly in the tech and cyber sectors. However, positive strides have been made to address these issues, with the UK government introducing initiatives aimed at providing greater support and protection for new parents in the workplace.
40% of female respondents acknowledged that family responsibilities played a significant role in their choice to depart from their positions in the technology sector.
One such initiative is the Pregnancy and Maternity Discrimination Bill, championed by Dan Jarvis MP and backed by the government in October 2022. This bill aims to extend redundancy protection to pregnant women as well as new parents returning to work from a relevant form of leave. By doing so, it seeks to shield new parents and expectant mothers from workplace discrimination, offering them greater job security during this crucial time in their lives.
This legislative move is a significant step forward in ensuring that parents in the tech field are afforded the protections they need to confidently return to work and pursue their careers without fear of discrimination or unfair treatment. It signals a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees, regardless of their parental status.
Furthermore, the tech industry, known for its embrace of remote work, hybrid models, and flexible working hours, is uniquely positioned to empower parents returning to the workforce. These flexible work arrangements not only accommodate the needs of parents but also enable them to balance their professional responsibilities with their family commitments more effectively.
Remote work, in particular, has proven to be a game-changer for many parents, allowing them to work from home while still contributing meaningfully to their teams and projects. The flexibility afforded by remote work can alleviate some of the stress associated with childcare arrangements and enable parents to be more present for their families while advancing their careers in the tech sector.
Initiatives like the Pregnancy and Maternity Discrimination Bill, coupled with the flexibility inherent in tech industry work culture, are essential for supporting parents returning to work. By creating an environment that values and accommodates the needs of parents, we can ensure that the tech field remains diverse, inclusive, and accessible to all.
Although some people have faced negative experiences returning to work or even balancing the life of being a parent in the workforce, we’ve talked to three separate individuals about their experiences as parents in / returning to work. In these short interviews, they cover the challenges they faced navigating the world of being a parent and working as well as their thoughts on how the industry has or hasn’t changed for them and their colleagues.
–
Dr. Ismini Vasileiou, Director of East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster and Associate professor at De Montfort University
Stepping into the world of academia within cyber security as a neurodiverse single mom has presented its fair share of challenges. Even in 2024, the field remains predominantly male, with lingering stereotypes. Juggling the demands of research, teaching, and parenting often feels like navigating a complex puzzle, especially when facing biases against women.
Career breaks can be particularly tough for women in academia, as they can slow down career progression and limit opportunities for advancement. However, with determination and the support of allies who value diversity, I’ve managed to keep moving forward.
Having flexible schedules and the option for remote work has been a saving grace, allowing me to balance my professional and personal responsibilities more effectively. Finding the right allies and mentors who not only recognise the value of diversity but also actively support and champion inclusivity has been crucial. Their guidance, encouragement, and advocacy have provided me with the strength and resilience needed to overcome obstacles and pursue my goals. Through mentorship, I’ve gained valuable insights, identified my skills, and expanded my professional network, ultimately contributing to my growth and success in academia.
David Nicholls, Managing Director at Better-IT Limited and Director of East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster
My children are young, and I am determined to prioritise my time with them and enjoy being there while they grow up. It would be so easy to miss these early years and not have the opportunity to develop close relationships with them.
Working in Cyber allows me a work/life balance that works for us all. I can work from any location, on any device, and at any time, which means that I don’t have to adhere to the standard 9-5 working hours. When things like an illness or school event occur, I have the flexibility to do as I need while still being in communication with the team if I am required.
Most of the people who work in my company have young children, and the understanding and flexibility offered help our workplace be a happy and productive place. We have had 100% staff retention over the past five years!
Amy Cushion, Business Support & Operations Manager, CyNam
As a parent, re-entering the realm of work has come with its own set of challenges and adjustments. I often feel at capacity with all the competing demands on my time; fitting family life and school runs around a 30-hour working week is not always easy! I have found that embracing the unpredictability that comes with parenthood and being open to adjusting schedules and priorities accordingly is essential. Whether it’s accommodating unexpected childcare needs or rearranging meetings to accommodate family commitments, flexibility is key. By encompassing flexibility and setting out clear boundaries, it has been manageable for me. I established my new designated work hours around the school runs and I try to manage my time and diary accordingly. It is not always possible; I do find myself on Teams calls at home with a loud, snack-demanding child!
I do feel that the world of work, particularly in this industry, has evolved over the past few years. Remote working and the need to be flexible around families and commitments seem to be much more accepted and far better accommodated. The cyber/tech space seems to lead the way in offering parents the support and flexibility they need to balance their work and family responsibilities. I am extremely lucky to work with a fantastic team who understand, and fully support me in my attempt to maintain a healthy balance between work and home life.
