Unlocking Workforce Potential: Why Supporting Working Fathers Makes Business Sense

As proud members of Working Families, and with our CEO Saira Demmer serving as a trustee, we’re pleased to share their latest research, published October 2025 in partnership with Wates Group. The study shines an important light on the experience of fathers in the workplace and the role employers play in shaping a truly family-friendly culture.

The findings reveal that while most fathers want to play an equal role in parenting, many still face outdated attitudes and barriers that prevent them from doing so. This is not just a personal issue for families. It is a business issue that affects engagement, retention, and the overall strength of the workforce.

At SF Recruitment, we have long believed that flexibility is not a benefit, but a necessity for a modern, high-performing organisation. Research like this helps all employers understand where the real barriers lie and what needs to change if we are serious about equality at work.

The reality of flexible working for fathers today

Workplace stigma and nervousness

• 50% of working dads still feel nervous asking for time off to care for their children.

• 74% want to embrace equal parenting but perceive a stigma around requesting flexibility.

Inappropriate questioning

• 1 in 5 fathers have been asked “Where’s your wife or partner?” when requesting time off.

• 1 in 5 have been questioned about the urgency of their childcare request.

• 1 in 5 have been asked to find alternative care.

Barriers to requesting flexibility

• 1 in 4 feel guilty asking colleagues to cover their work.

• 1 in 5 worry their boss will think less of them.

• 1 in 5 say their partner is expected to cover all childcare duties.

Impact on family life

• 8 in 10 admitted workplace pressures have caused strain on themselves, their partners, or their child’s health.

• 1 in 4 have missed important events in their child’s life.

• 1 in 5 have considered changing careers to find a more understanding workplace.

Paternity leave uptake

• 35% of dads did not take as much leave as they wanted, and 6% took none at all.

• 62% feel judged for prioritising family commitments.

• 13% would not feel comfortable taking full leave for a subsequent child.

Perception and flexibility

• 69% still feel pressure to be the main breadwinner.

• 44% say employers treat mothers more favourably regarding flexibility.

How flexibility for dads drives stronger, more inclusive teams

Creating a culture that normalises fathers taking time for childcare benefits everyone. It supports equality at home and at work, helps retain talented people during critical stages of their careers, and ultimately builds stronger, more productive teams.

As employers, this research reminds us to look beyond policies and focus on culture. Real progress happens when flexibility and understanding are part of everyday leadership, not reserved for special circumstances.

We are proud to stand alongside Working Families in advocating for workplaces that empower both men and women to thrive at work and at home.

Thank you to Working Families and Wates Group for allowing us to share this valuable research.

👉 Read the full research from Working Families and Wates Group

👉 During October 2025 you can download a FREE guide about supporting fathers and expectant dads in the workplace