New report finds women are being overlooked for promotions or pay rise opportunities after returning from career breaks for childcare.

Almost two-fifths of women in PR have taken a career break, and over a third have been overlooked for a promotion or experienced lower pay on their return, raising concerns that women are being penalised for childcare duties. 

The Global Women in PR report, published yesterday, revealed 88% of female PR professionals take on primary childcare responsibilities, yet 76% work in environments without adequate family-friendly policies.

While women are pushing for flexible working options, such as compressed (31%) or part-time hours (24%), over a quarter feel these arrangements slow their career progression.

Nearly 20% of women in PR plan to leave the industry after turning 50, with 68% citing poor work-life balance. Despite the demand for flexibility, the availability of such options has slightly declined as companies push for a return to the office.

“Worryingly, our industry is mirroring trends across the world, from the erosion of women’s rights to the women choosing not to reach their potential because it feels too hard and exhausting,” said Global Women in PR co-founder and president Sue Hardwick.

She added that organisations needed to be better at offering flexible working practices and access to senior role models to address these barriers and help women advance in their careers.