Bright Horizons report: Parental Leave Benchmark 2026
The Bright Horizons Parental Leave Benchmark 2026 report explores the disconnect between policy generosity and the actual day-to-day transition back to work.
The report identifies several key friction points. Access and eligibility barriers often undermine otherwise generous policies, and a noticeable "manager gap" frequently disrupts the return-to-work experience. When line managers lack appropriate training, empathy, or guidance, employees struggle to reintegrate seamlessly, regardless of financial packages.
The report also shows that over eight in 10 (85%) of surveyed employers now offer at least 12 weeks of full maternity pay. However, only half of parents report that returning to work following leave is an easy process.
Therefore, strong financial provisioning alone cannot guarantee successful retention or wellbeing. Instead, the wider support ecosystem, encompassing preparation, ongoing communication, and post-leave integration, is what truly determines whether parents stay and thrive.
Download the Bright Horizons Parental Leave Benchmark 2026 report to find out more.
Supplied by REBA Associate Member, Bright Horizons Work+Family Solutions
Bright Horizons is dedicated to providing the best in class work+family solutions.
