Companies should do their utmost best to support remote working parents as working a full-time job whilst raising children is no easy feat. The COVID-19 pandemic changed how we work tremendously. As a result, some parents now work remotely, juggling caring for their children and working simultaneously. The recruitment department at GCS Malta list 10 ways companies can support remote working parents in this article.

1. Offer flextime

Let your employees know that as long as they meet the required deadlines, it does not matter how and when the work is done. A great way to support remote working parents is by allowing them to customise their schedules and offering flextime.

2. Implement no-meeting blocks

Since most parents will need to pick up their children from school and take them to activities or appointments, setting up a no-meeting block for the entire company can be a great way to reduce stress for parents whilst also allowing other employees more flexibility.

3. Provide technological support

Working with children at home is tricky but working with children at home without the right equipment is ten times harder. Companies need to provide the necessary equipment since families might share one computer or not have the financial means to boost their internet package.

4. Normalise the inclusion of children

Aim to foster a culture that normalises the presence of children. While in some cases it is unprofessional to have children around, remote working parents might not have this luxury, especially if they have to take care of their child whilst being in meetings.

5. Increase the number of paid time off (PTO) days

Increasing the number of paid time off beyond the minimum required number of days can be a great gesture to show support towards parents. Often, parents take paid time off to take children to appointments, to pick them up from school in case of emergencies etc., leaving little paid time off days for an actual mental break from work.

6. Give access to childcare

A great way to help parents out is by either offering childcare within the workplace or funding childcare for remote workers so that they can work without having to juggle parenting at the same time.

7. Offer meal subscriptions, discounts, or food allowance

Offering subscriptions with food delivery services or discounts can help parents spend less time cooking and washing up. Another alternative is to give employees a food allowance to help with the financial burden of groceries.

8. Keep the children entertained

There are various things companies could do to help keep the children of remote working parents entertained while they work from home:

• Send activity kits for children
• Host kid-friendly virtual events
• Subscription boxes for children

9. Host employee support groups

Allowing parents to have a supportive community at work is crucial. Start a support group or offer support programs, so parents feel heard, understood and supported.

10. Conduct a survey to gain more insight

Conduct a survey annually to see whether there is something your company can do to provide more support. The needs of parents might change according to their current situation, so communicate regularly with them to keep up to date with their struggles.

Why GCS Malta?

At GCS Malta, our team of specialised recruiters can offer quick and cost-effective company recruitment services, pairing companies and candidates with their perfect match. Check out our vacancies and contact us today for more information.

Article by Sarah Jane Gauci