Enhancing Support of Diverse Motherhoods for Work Inclusion: A Policy Brief

<b>[Executive Summary]</b><br></br> 1 in 3 mothers of all birth in the UK are ethnically diverse mothers who are not born in the UK (ONS, 2023). Ethnic minority working mothers make significant economic contributions as well as crucial social contribution of raising the future generations in an increasingly diverse UK society. Mothers in the UK, especially those from diverse backgrounds face disproportionately significant <b>barriers to workforce participation</b> due to the <b>‘triple penalties’</b> they experience at work based on gender, motherhood, and ethnicity. Addressing these challenges is essential for promoting economic inclusion, gender and race equality, and social mobility in the UK. Despite the implementation of policies aimed at supporting working mothers—such as flexible working arrangements and increased government(s) support for childcare funding—there is a severe <b>lack of representation of ethnic minority working mothers</b> in media, literature and policy.<br></br><br></br> This project highlights that ethnic minority mothers have specific requirements in order to return to work:<br></br> • <b>Accessible</b> and <b>affordable childcare that is culturally attentive,</b><br></br> • <b>Extended support for maternal wellbeing and consistent employer support</b> for return to work, and,<br></br> • <b>Increased community support and tailored voluntary services.</b>