Choosing an employer can come with unique considerations. While salary is often the focus, work benefits can have a profound impact on your well-being, career progression, and work-life balance. In the UK, many companies are offering exceptional benefits that cater to the needs of women, helping them thrive both personally and professionally. In this guide, we will explore the top 15 work benefits that companies offer, highlighting the organisations leading the way in gender equality.
Why work benefits matter for women
Work benefits play a pivotal role in supporting women as they transition from university to full-time careers. They are especially crucial in helping women maintain a balance between personal and professional life, offering support during significant life events, and enabling long-term career development. With companies becoming more aware of the importance of gender equality, many have introduced benefits specifically designed to support women. For graduates, these benefits can be a key factor in deciding which employers to join.
Top 15 work benefits for women
1. Flexible working hours and remote working
Flexibility is a top priority for many women entering the workforce. Whether it’s working remotely or having adaptable working hours, this benefit allows employees to maintain a healthier work-life balance. Companies like PwC, Deloitte, and Aviva are renowned for offering flexible working arrangements, making them attractive to graduates seeking a balanced approach to their careers.
2. Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
A progressive maternity leave policy is essential for women planning to start a family. Many UK companies offer more than the statutory requirement, ensuring new mothers are supported both financially and emotionally. Accenture, Unilever, and EY are just a few organisations that provide extended maternity leave, allowing women to return to work on their own terms.
3. Paid family leave and childcare support
Balancing a career with family life can be challenging, which is why some employers offer paid family leave or provide financial support for childcare. Companies like Google UK, Lloyds Banking Group, and Johnson & Johnson offer on-site childcare services or financial assistance, reducing the burden on working parents and allowing women to focus on their professional growth.
4. Comprehensive healthcare and wellness programmes
Well-being is crucial for maintaining productivity and job satisfaction. Many companies offer comprehensive healthcare benefits, including mental health support, fitness programmes, and wellness initiatives. For example, Bupa, Barclays, and GlaxoSmithKline provide robust healthcare packages that go beyond the basics, promoting both physical and mental health.
5. Returnship programmes
Women who take career breaks often face difficulties re-entering the workforce. Returnship programmes, designed to help women transition back into professional life, have been embraced by companies like Amazon UK, Goldman Sachs, and Fidelity International. These programmes offer mentoring, skills development, and a structured pathway to reintegrate into the workplace.
6. Diversity and inclusion initiatives
Many companies are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, creating a supportive environment for women to excel. Organisations such as Microsoft UK, KPMG, and BT Group have implemented initiatives that promote gender diversity and ensure women have equal opportunities for advancement.
7. Professional development and mentorship programmes
Mentorship and professional development are vital for career growth. Many employers offer structured mentoring schemes that pair female graduates with experienced professionals. IBM, AstraZeneca, and HSBC are leaders in offering development programmes designed to help women progress in their careers.
8. Equal pay and salary transparency
Equal pay is a critical issue for women in the workplace. Several UK companies have implemented policies that ensure pay equity and salary transparency between men and women. BBC, Legal & General, and Sky are known for their commitment to closing the gender pay gap and ensuring fair compensation.
9. Support for fertility treatments and family planning
Some organisations offer benefits that assist with fertility treatments such as IVF, providing support for women who may face challenges in starting a family. Companies like Facebook, NatWest Group, and Vodafone are recognised for their family planning support, including access to fertility treatment as part of their employee benefits.
10. Gender-neutral parental leave
To create a more equitable environment, some companies offer gender-neutral parental leave policies, allowing both men and women to share caregiving responsibilities. Employers like Diageo, Aviva, and O2 are at the forefront of this change, offering equal leave to all parents regardless of gender.
11. Mental health support and Employee Assistance Programmes
The importance of mental health in the workplace cannot be overstated. Many companies offer mental health support services, including counselling, mental health days, and employee assistance programmes. Tesco, Shell UK, and BP are leaders in promoting mental well-being in the workplace.
12. Sabbatical and unpaid leave opportunities
For women looking to take time off for personal development or to fulfil other commitments, sabbaticals or extended unpaid leave options can be invaluable. Companies like Rolls-Royce, Unilever, and SAP offer these benefits, allowing employees to return to work rejuvenated.
13. Employee networks for women
Employee networks are powerful resources for women in the workplace. These groups provide support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Network Rail, Capgemini, and Lloyd’s of London offer strong women’s networks that encourage collaboration and career progression.
14. Workplace safety and harassment prevention policies
A safe and respectful work environment is essential. Companies like Channel 4, ASOS, and GSK have implemented robust anti-harassment policies and created a culture of respect, ensuring women feel safe and supported in their workplace.
15. Gender pay gap reporting and commitment to improvement
Transparency around pay and a commitment to closing the gender pay gap are key indicators of a company's support for women. Employers like British Airways, Aviva, and Barclays have taken steps towards improving gender pay equality by regularly publishing pay gap reports and implementing plans to close the gap.
Companies leading the way
Several UK companies are recognised as leaders in providing benefits that support women. Unilever, PwC, and Aviva are just a few of the organisations that consistently rank highly for their commitment to gender equality and comprehensive work benefits. These companies are not only committed to supporting women’s professional growth but also ensuring they can thrive personally, offering a holistic approach to employee well-being.
As a UK graduate woman, choosing an employer that prioritises work benefits can have a profound impact on your career and personal life. From flexible working arrangements to comprehensive healthcare and returnship programmes, many organisations are leading the way in supporting women. By prioritising benefits like these, you can ensure you join a company that values gender equality and is committed to helping you succeed in every aspect of your life.
Are you ready to start looking for jobs with the benefits you need? Search here on graduatejobs.com.
