 Mothers and fathers are said to form a new employment underclass |
Parents and carers are part of a new working underclass, according to the Equal Opportunities Commission for Scotland. The body says 40% of mothers, 10% of fathers and 20% of carers have had to give up or turn down jobs due to their caring responsibilities.
As a result, it is launching an inquiry into the reasons behind the problem.
It intends to examine the obstacles faced by parents looking for part-time work and how this affects the economy.
As part of its it investigation, the commission is calling on parents, carers and employers to tell them about their employment experiences in relation to their responsibilities.
Flexible working
EOC Scotland commissioner Rowena Arshad said: "We are keen to find out how people's opportunities are limited by not having access to flexible working hours.
"More men and women than ever before are involved with caring for others and this is set to increase in the future.
"It's essential we uncover and tackle the popular misconceptions about the value of flexible and part-time workers if Scotland's employers are to compete in our 24-7 global economy.
"Supporting parents and carers is good for families, good for business and good for Scotland."
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