Recent data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that mothers in England experience a significant decline in earnings following the birth of their first child. On average, mothers lose approximately £65,618 in income by the time their first child reaches the age of five. The analysis, which followed pay data from 2014 to 2022, reveals that women’s monthly earnings fell by 42%, or £1,051 per month, five years after childbirth compared to their earnings a year prior. The financial impact appears to be compounded, with an estimated additional loss of £26,317 after the birth of a second child and £32,456 following a third child.
Various experts have highlighted the implications of these findings. Rachel Grocott, chief executive of the charity Pregnant Then Screwed, pointed out the difficulties mothers face in the workforce. Additionally, Joeli Brearley, chief executive of the consultancy Growth Spurt, remarked on the detrimental effect of reduced earnings on women’s quality of life. Alice Martin from Lancaster University emphasized the pressing need for policy changes to address the “motherhood penalty.”
In response to these challenges, the UK government introduced shared parental leave in 2014, allowing parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay following a child’s birth or adoption. Nonetheless, uptake of this policy has remained low. The government has initiated a review of parental leave, aiming to streamline processes for employers and parents alike. Existing maternity leave allows for 90% pay for the initial six weeks, which then transitions to either £187.18 per week or 90% of the mother’s average earnings for the following 33 weeks. New fathers qualify for two weeks of paid leave at a similar rate.
While recent changes, such as the introduction of government-funded childcare for families earning up to £100,000, have been made, experts warn that significant hurdles remain, including childcare funding and availability. A government spokesperson noted ongoing efforts to bridge the gender pay gap, emphasizing the need for employers to better support mothers in the workforce.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/oct/03/mothers-lose-an-average-65618-in-pay-by-the-time-their-first-child-turns-five