Providing a framework for agencies and organisations to create inclusive, supportive workplaces that empower employees at all life stages

The PR industry faces unique challenges in balancing demanding work environments with the diverse needs of employees’ personal and family lives. The PR Mums Parental Policy Best Practice Charter aims to address these challenges, providing a framework for agencies and organisations to create inclusive workplaces that empower employees at all life stages.

Developed collaboratively by Platform55 and the industry Steering Group, and informed by research, this charter outlines the key principles and practices that define excellence in work-life balance management within PR. By adopting these practices, organisations commit to fostering an environment where career success and family life mutually support one another.

DEVELOPED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

The charter is built on 4 central pillars:

HR/PR CULTURE

Focus on creating a supportive organisational framework that values work-life balance and inclusion.

Family-Friendly Policies: Comprehensive policies that support employees with family responsibilities, including those undergoing fertility treatment, surrogacy, adoption, fostering, and those affected by baby loss. Ensuring a balance between work and personal life for all parents, regardless of their journey to parenthood.

Flexible Work Practices: Adaptable working arrangements that accommodate diverse family needs, such as flexible hours or remote work options.

Culture of Equity: Visible commitment to equal opportunities and equity for all employees, regardless of family status, life stage, or work pattern. Policies aim to ensure fairness while acknowledging that different individuals may require different support to succeed.

NEW PARENTS

Supporting employees through the transition to parenthood is crucial to attract talent and reduce attrition, whilst maintaining a balanced and productive workforce.

Pre-leave Support: Assistance for expectant parents in preparing for their parental leave, ensuring a smooth transition both to and from work.

Returners Workshop for Re-onboarding Both New Mums and Dads: Workshops to empower new parents to confidently reintegrate back into work, helping them build momentum and thrive both professionally and personally.

Career Coaching: Professional guidance to help new parents navigate their career paths while balancing family responsibilities.

Re-onboarding Guide for Returners: Comprehensive resources to help employees transition back to work after parental leave.

Transparent Career Progression Post Family Leave: Clear pathways for career advancement that accommodate the needs of employees with families.

PEOPLE LEADERS

Equipping leadership with the right skills and knowledge is essential for implementing family-friendly policies effectively.

Leadership Training: Ongoing training to bring family-friendly policies to life, ensuring that leaders are not only aware of the policies but are also equipped with the skills and knowledge to implement them effectively. This includes practical steps to ensure policies are not just written but applied in everyday practices.

Driving Equity: Equipping leaders with skills to drive gender equity in the workplace, ensuring fairness in opportunities and treatment. This includes addressing the unique needs of different employees to promote a more inclusive work environment.

Leading with Empathy: Developing leaders’ ability to understand and support employees' unique needs, recognising the different challenges individuals face while delivering business results.

Managing Family Leave: Educating leaders on effectively implementing family-friendly policies, supporting individuals both during and after leave.

Re-onboarding Guides for People Leaders: Resources to help leaders re-onboard returners effectively after parental leave, ensuring a smooth and supportive return to work.

LIFE STAGES/WELL-BEING

Recognising that employees face different challenges throughout their lives, this pillar emphasises understanding and supporting different life stages.· Support and resources for various life stages: Comprehensive assistance for employees facing diverse challenges, such as:

  • Caring for Elderly Parents: Guidance and resources for employees supporting ageing family members.
  • Parenting Children with SEND Needs: Tailored support for parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities.
  • Co-parenting Through Separation: Assistance for employees navigating co-parenting during and after separation.
  • Support for Child Anxiety: Resources to help employees manage children’s mental health and emotional well-being.
  • Resources for Managing Menopause: Providing information, guidance, and practical resources to help employees understand and navigate menopause.

Community Support & Mentorship: Establish a peer mentorship programme and parent-to-parent networks, enabling employees to share experiences, tips, and insights fostering a supportive community and helping individuals balance family and career.

Interested in becoming certified?

Words mean nothing without action; our ultimate objective is to present this charter as an inspirational call to action, catalysing a move towards a better - and, in time, best practise across our industry.

The PR Mums Certification Scheme recognises agencies / teams that demonstrates excellence in parental policy and work-life balance, signalling a commitment to inclusivity and flexibility.

Click to begin your journey to certification today.