Parental Leave Benchmark: Why Parental Leave Policy Alone Is Not Enough

“Culture matters enormously”: Why Getting Parental Leave Right Takes More Than a Good Policy

What does it really take to balance career progression with being an active parent? Senior economist James Pomeroy shares how taking Shared Parental Leave and moving to a four-day week reshaped his view of work, parenting and flexibility.

In this conversation, James Pomeroy talks openly about fatherhood, flexible working and why good policies only make a difference when people understand them and feel confident using them. His central message is simple: it is possible to be both a committed parent and a committed employee.

Want to see how your organisation compares in the UK market? Download the Parental Leave Benchmark Report 2026 and explore the full picture of parental leave.