A poll of 1,000 employed parents, with children aged 16 and under, found 57 per cent feel guilty about taking time off work to care for the little ones when they are under the weather
How families cope with winter bugs and illnesses
Two out of five working parents have admitted to ‘pulling a sickie’ to care for their unwell child, according to a recent survey.
Now, 80% of parents are urging employers to offer more flexible working arrangements to accommodate for sick children.
The poll, which questioned 1,000 employed parents with children aged 16 and under, revealed that 57% feel guilty about taking time off work to look after their kids when they’re ill.
The study found that dads were 15% more likely than mums to fib to their employer about the reason for their absence, while mums were more inclined to rely on grandparents for childcare if their child was sick.
Rachel Ramsden, brand manager at Olbas, who commissioned the research, commented: “”Parents are constantly juggling the demands of work and family life, but when a household comes down with a bug, the pressure can feel overwhelming.”
“Many parents are forced to call in sick to care for their children, adding stress to already demanding jobs. With so many working full-time while also managing the unpredictability of family health.”
The study also discovered that parents take an average of three days off each year to care for their children and as a result, 64% of parents end up falling ill too, contracting colds, coughs and sore throats.
However, a significant 78% of parents confessed that their recovery time lengthens when they don’t allow themselves adequate rest.
NHS GP Dr Roger Henderson, in collaboration with Olbas, emphasised: “It’s essential to listen to your body and take time off if you’re feeling run down, as early signs of illness – such as fatigue, headaches, or a scratchy throat – can be easily overlooked in busy lives.”
He added: “Flexible and supportive work environments help individuals, especially parents, balance responsibilities while maintaining their health.”
“Generationally, older adults and young children are particularly susceptible to colds and flu, making it even more crucial for them to prioritise rest and recovery.”