An Editorial
British women still experience three distinct “forms of worry” following a poll conducted by mentoring enterprise Tessy’s Brunches, the new research shows that:
— 59% of women polled were worried about balancing career and the pressures of family life.
— 29% cited workplace progression and equality as their biggest area of concern.
— 14% were most likely to be worried about the cost-of-living crisis and the impact it has on the quality of their life.
As we draw the curtains on another year, it's crucial to reflect on the concerns that resonate with women across various walks of life.In a recent end-of-year poll conducted by Tessy's Brunches, we sought to understand the pressing issues keeping women awake at night. The results are in, and they shed light on the complex and multifaceted challenges that women grapple with in today's world.
1. Balancing Act: The Juggling Act of Career and Family
A staggering 59% of respondents identified balancing career and family life as their paramount concern. The modern woman wears multiple hats, seamlessly transitioning from the boardroom to the living room. Striking the right balance between professional aspirations and familial responsibilities is a delicate dance that requires support systems, flexibility, and societal acknowledgment.
Recommendation: Employers must embrace flexible work policies, promote a culture of understanding, and champion the importance of work-life balance. Additionally, fostering an environment that encourages shared responsibility between partners can alleviate the burden on women.
2. Shattering the Glass Ceiling: Workplace Progression and Equality
The glass ceiling still casts its shadow, with 27% of respondents expressing concern about workplace progression and equality. Despite strides in the right direction, women continue to face barriers to advancement, unequal pay, and limited representation in leadership roles.
Recommendation: Corporations should prioritise diversity and inclusion initiatives, conduct regular pay equity audits, and provide mentorship programs to support women on their professional journeys.It's time to break the glass ceiling and create workplaces that empower women to thrive.
3. The Cost-of-Living Conundrum: Navigating Financial Challenges
For 14% of respondents, the cost-of-living crisis emerged asa significant challenge. The relentless rise in living expenses, from housing to education, poses a threat to financial stability and well-being.
Recommendation: Advocacy for policies that address the root causes of the cost-of-living crisis is imperative. Additionally, financial literacy programs can empower women to navigate economic challenges and make informed decisions for their families.
Executive Summary: A Call to Action
As we bid farewell to this year, let us collectively commit to creating a world where women can pursue their ambitions without compromising on family life, where workplaces champion equality, and where the cost of living is not a barrier to prosperity. Tessy's Brunches urges its readers to engage in conversations, support initiatives that promote gender equality, and advocate for policies that address the challenges faced by women.
Our 2024 Call to Action: Empowering Women Rebuild Their Beautiful
— Support Workplace Equality: Encourage your workplace to adopt and promote policies that ensure equality in opportunities and compensation.
— Advocate for Flexibility: Petition for flexible work arrangements to better accommodate the diverse needs of working women.
— Educate and Empower: Engage in financial literacy programs and advocate for accessible education to empower women economically.
In closing, let us embark on the new year with a renewed commitment to fostering a world where women can thrive personally and professionally. Tessy's Brunches remains dedicated to being a platform for these important conversations and endeavours to be a catalyst for positive change.
Wishing you a year ahead filled with empowerment, equality, and success.
With warmth and solidarity,
Dr Tessy Ojo CBE,
Founder and Chief Visionary,
The Tessy's Brunches Team