Workplace benefits for parents

As you may know, I recently had a baby and returned from maternity leave in July 2025 when he was four months old. While I love being a mum, I really missed the mental stimulation (yes, I’m a recruitment nerd). Luckily, my other half is currently on paternity leave caring for him. It’s worth noting this is my second child, so there’s a lot to juggle! This experience has made me reflect on the workplace benefits for parents that really matter.

As I reflect on returning to work, I’ve realised how important workplace benefits for parents truly are when balancing family and career. Just in case you’re not aware, I’m a Specialist Recruiter within the Chartered Accountants (CA) space. Now, being on the other side of the fence as a parent of two, I see the benefits offered by Tyler Wren in a whole new light. It got me thinking – in today’s market, what benefits should parents be looking for or asking about in interviews?

Flexible Hours

This is a must-have for parents! Whether it’s a doctor’s appointment, a swimming lesson, or a prizegiving ceremony, time is precious. Flexible hours remain one of the most valued workplace benefits for parents, allowing them to manage their busy schedules. Having the flexibility to start earlier and finish earlier, or to make up time, is a no-brainer. Leave the office early and log on later from home to cover off any time missed is often a request by my ambitious parents. They are not looking for an easy pace but the opportunity to meet their job requirements in a slightly out of the box manner.

Interview questions to ask:

What flexibility do you offer to staff who are parents?
What are the recent events you have attended for your little one?

Hybrid Work Environments

Since March 2020, working from home has become an expected benefit. There was an increase towards more working from home which had an effect on office culture and collaboration. I have noticed in the last 12 months there has been a change, more firms are encouraging staff back into the office, essentially swinging the other way. There’s huge value in breaking up the week with a WFH day: no commute, the chance to catch up on chores, and yes – a cooked lunch! Personally, I find I’m more productive working from home a few days a week.

Interview questions to ask:

What is your current policy on working from home?
Once I’m up to speed, when can I start working from home?

Breastfeeding-Friendly Facilities

Other key workplace benefits for parents include facilities that support breastfeeding and pumping, which make returning to work easier. It might seem basic, but having a private, comfortable space to pump and somewhere to store breastmilk is essential. It is a legal requirement for your employer to provide appropriate facilities so there’s no shame in asking about this.

Interview questions to ask:

What support do you offer staff who choose to breastfeed and pump?
What storage facilities are available for pumped milk?
What is your approach to breaks for pumping?

Extended Paid Parental Leave

The government provides primary carers with up to 26 weeks of paid leave, taken in one continuous period. Depending on the firm, a few add on top of the government’s parental leave by topping up to their current salary up to 52 weeks. There is also an increase in benefits such as paid time off for the secondary parent too.

Interview questions to ask:

What is your current parental leave policy for the primary carer?
What is your current parental leave policy for the secondary carer?
What do you provide above and beyond the standard parental leave payments?

Office Culture That Embraces Parenting

In the past, parents might have said they had an appointment instead of sharing it was a parent-teacher interview. A culture that supports parenting openly is a subtle but crucial benefit. It starts at the top with leaders who are parents themselves and a team that feels safe to share their family commitments.

Interview questions to ask:

How many senior leaders are parents?
What examples can you share about specific times/ways the firm has supported working parents?

At the end of the day, everyone’s needs differ. I’m personally grateful for the support I’ve received from pregnancy through to returning to work (twice now). Some days I arrive fresh; other days my son wakes up four times during the night, and that’s when I order a strong coffee.

If you’re navigating your next career move, knowing what workplace benefits for parents your potential employer offers can make all the difference. I know not everyone’s situation is the same. It’s vital to be supported so you can be your best self both personally and professionally. If you want to chat confidentially about your current situation or explore which firms offer the benefits that matter most to you, feel free to reach out.

About Me

I am a Specialist Recruiter within the CA space which means I help Chartered Accountants / Certified Public Accountants and those studying toward their CA or CPA qualification.

My clients are Public Practice firms and Accounting firms and the roles/accounting jobs are within Business Advisory Services (BAS), External Audit, Tax, Corporate Finance, Risk Advisory, and Insolvency.

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