Episode Eighteen - Why family inclusion matters

In this episode of Diverse Talk Matters, Natasha Broomfield-Reid is joined by Jane van Zyl, Chief Executive of Working Families – the UK’s leading work-life balance charity working to remove the barriers faced by working parents and carers.Jane and Tash discuss the wide range of support offered by Working Families, including their free legal advice line, which helps working parents and carers understand and assert their workplace rights. They explore how the charity works directly with employers to create truly flexible and family-friendly environments, and how this benefits all employees – not just those with caring responsibilities.This episode dives into key themes including: The importance of flexible working for individuals and organisations Insights from the Working Families Index and what it tells us about modern working life Equalising parental leave and providing better support for dads Enhancing workplace policies for adoption, fostering, and surrogacy Why job design, line manager training, and leadership culture are essential for embedding flexibility The small changes organisations can make that have a big impact Advocating for policy change based on lived experience and best practice 📅 The significance of National Work Life Week in promoting better work-life balanceJane brings a wealth of practical insight into what’s working, what needs to change, and how organisations can take meaningful steps towards becoming more inclusive and supportive for all working families.Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, line manager or someone balancing work and care, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help drive positive change.To find out more about the services available from Diverse Matters please visit www.diversematters.co.ukOr connect with us on social mediaFacebookLinkedInInstagramThank you for tuning in and remember, if there is a topic you would like us to cover please contact us with your suggestions.Please feel free to share this podcast with your networks or anyone who may benefit from the content.