For now it's goodbye from me... but not for long!

By coincidence, next Wednesday, 8th March I go on maternity leave which falls on International Women's Day. It felt like it would be an opportunity missed should I not comment on the topic.

Sadly the UK has the second most expensive childcare system in the world and the third worst ranking maternity offer in Europe. I am fortunate that I am currently working for a business with an enhanced policy, however what a sad state of affairs in the UK in the 21st century when we think about trying to generate equality and support women in the workforce.

Only 3-8% of eligible couples take shared parental leave, I am one of these lucky couples. What I have realised through the process is that this is still a taboo topic for some and it needs to change and be more normalised.

On a personal level I have struggled at the prospect of stepping away from my career at the point I am at in my journey in my current role after a busy and exciting first year.

As I embark on the next exciting chapter of life, my parting comment would be: if there is someone in your workplace that is pregnant, respect and support any decision they make, its a personal journey and what is right for one person/family may not be right for the next... and that's ok!

For now its goodbye from me, but I'm excited to return in five months time, safe in the knowledge my baby boy will be in the best possible hands for the following four months with my husband Ben.