8 February 2021
This is the first major initiative from The Portman Estate’s newly formed Diversity and Inclusion Working Group.
The Portman Estate’s newly formed Diversity and Inclusion Working Group have announced the launch of a brand new scheme that will support new parents – the New Parents’ Leave Policy. It is part of a number of new initiatives that have been put in place which highlight the Estate’s long term commitment to continue to invest in its employees.
The enhanced New Parents’ Leave Policy offers full pay for 21 weeks to all employees who have become a parent via birth, adoption or surrogacy, and who have completed 18 months’ service at The Portman Estate prior to the expected week of childbirth. This policy will be part of a wider ‘Family Care Policy’ and is only the first step on the Estate’s journey. Many other new initiatives are also being introduced such as reviewing recruitment processes within the business. A two hour break for employees during daylight hours to boost wellbeing in the winter months has recently been introduced which will continue during the cold season.
The Diversity and Inclusion Working Group’s ultimate aim is to embed both inclusion and the wellbeing of the team within the DNA of The Portman Estate.
The requirement for equal access to this policy, regardless of the means by which an employee becomes a parent, is simple and is based on the fundamental rationale that gender is no basis for distinction in the workplace. The property industry in particular has been focusing more on equality and wellbeing, and is aiming to create a level playfield for all employees.
Research shows that 26% of men and 29% of women have considered switching careers to find a job that better accommodates working families. Equal enhanced parental leave entitlement helps to ensure that men have the same opportunities to be a present parent to their children and allows them to co-parent.
Kirsty Arnold, Chair of The Portman Estate Diversity and Inclusion Working Group, says, “The Portman Estate is committed to creating a more inclusive workplace. Co-parenting in the workplace helps to address gender balance within business and our New Parents’ Leave Policy is a great step in the right direction.
One of the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group’s aims is to attract and retain talent, and we hope our New Parents’ Leave Policy will strengthen our loyal and productive workforce.
We are learning every step of the way and are proud of the work the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group is doing. We look forward to delivering more new initiatives in the future.”
The Portman Estate is keen to work with advisers, partners, consultants and businesses within the area to catalyse conversations surrounding diversity and inclusion policies. The Portman Estate strives to be a forward-thinking employer that not only champions, but delivers an inclusive culture.
Research source: https://www.marketingweek.com/brands-gender-neutralising-parental-leave/
