Family-Friendly Policies and Other Good Workplace Practices in the Context of COVID-19: Key steps employers can take

For many children and their families, the COVID-19 pandemic means disrupted education and childcare, family illness and potential loss of household income. Restrictions on free movement and the socio-economic fallout puts children at heightened risk for abuse, neglect and violence. In the context of school and childcare closures, domestic care responsibilities for parents, especially women, have increased considerably. By giving parents the time, information, services and resources they need to cope with the crisis, family-friendly policies and practices can make a crucial difference.

This document presents interim recommendations for employers to mitigate the negative consequences of COVID-19 for children and families.