Our 2026 member survey
We run an annual survey of women in public affairs, led by research agency Opinium. This year’s survey found that 56% of women working in public affairs think taking any maternity leave will mostly harm their career, highlighting that deep-seated cultural barriers remain even as formal workplace policies improve.
The survey revealed a mixed picture on maternity provision. While 55% of women say their organisation offers enhanced maternity benefits beyond the statutory minimum, significant gaps in understanding and transparency persist. More than a quarter (27%) of women are unsure whether enhanced maternity leave exists at their organisation, while 14% report that only statutory provision is available.
The findings underline the need for employers to proactively communicate parental leave policies, ensure paternity provision is clear and accessible, and actively support uptake to drive genuine cultural change.
WiPA 2026 Survey respondents on Maternity Leave…
“I feel discussing parental leave would be seen as a sign of weakness. I don’t draw
attention to kids appointments etc at work, it doesn’t go over very well”
“I feel it could affect my progression opportunities compared to male colleagues at a similar level to me if management knew I was considering having children in the near future.”
Women in Public Affairs (WiPA) is a private company limited by guarantee. WiPA does not provide lobbying services and does not represent the interests of third-party clients. All advocacy undertaken by WiPA or its representatives is issue-based and focused solely on advancing WiPA’s mission to promote pay transparency, inclusive recruitment, and fair progression in the public affairs sector. WiPA is a non-partisan organisation and does not endorse or support any political party, candidate, or government official.