Work, family and the care of children: issues of equality and responsibility

Abstract

SUMMARY. The current growth in women's employment, particularly among women with young children, gives new prominence to an issue of major political, economic and social importance, involving men as well as women and children: the relationship between paid work and family responsibilities and how to reconcile these demands without creating inequalities or stress for children or parents, especially mothers. The paper considers the Government's response to this development, arguing that it should be taking a strategic or leadership role, working in active partnership with employers, trades unions, local authorities, voluntary organisations and parents. Examples from Sweden, Spain and New Zealand are given to illustrate this alternative approach