Working parents admit ‘pulling a sickie’ just to look after their poorly child

PARENTS have admitted to taking time off work to look after their poorly child.

The latest findings have revealed that two in five working mums and dads have ‘pulled a sickie’ just to look after their ill kid.

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A poll of 1,000 employed parents with children aged 16 and under found 57 per cent feel guilty about taking time off work to care for their little ones when they are under the weather.

And 81 per cent of parents hope employers would consider being more flexible with working arrangements to accommodate sick children.

Dads were found to be more likely to lie to their employer about the reason for taking a sick day to look after their child than mums.

Rachel Ramsden, brand manager at Olbas, which commissioned the research, said: “Parents are constantly juggling the demands of work and family life, but when a household comes down with a bug, the pressure can feel overwhelming.

“Many parents are forced to call in sick to care for their children, adding stress to already demanding jobs.

“Our research highlights just how resilient modern parents need to be, with so many working full-time while also managing the unpredictability of family health.

“In this day and age, having a strong support network – whether it’s grandparents or close friends –can make all the difference when everything starts to feel like too much.”

The study also found 72 per cent feel like they have no choice but to ‘power through’ when they are ill.

With parents taking off an average of three days each year to look after their queasy offspring.

And 39 per cent of mums are more likely to call on the grandparents to help with childcare if they happen to fall sick compared to 30 per cent of dads. 

It also emerged 64 per cent claim their own health suffers due to needing to care for their sick children, with 65 per cent claiming it’s like a domino effect in their home once one person gets sick.

While 62 per cent said their child’s school or nursery calls them as soon as their children get a cold.

The first-born child was typically found to be the first person in a family to get sick after the summer holidays, followed by mum and the second-born child and finally dad.

Colds (47 per cent), coughs (39 per cent) and sore throats (22 per cent) were the most common ailments parents are picking up from their little ones.

The research, carried out via OnePoll.com, also revealed 23 per cent of mums simply carry on as normal, while 16 per cent of dads will focus on self-care like hydration and nutrition.

But 78 per cent of parents said it takes them longer to get over an illness when they don’t take the time to rest and recover.

NHS GP Dr Roger Henderson, who has teamed with Olbas, said: “It’s essential to listen to your body and take time off if you’re feeling run down, as early signs of illness – such as fatigue, headaches, or a scratchy throat – can be easily overlooked in busy lives.

“Flexible and supportive work environments help individuals, especially parents, balance responsibilities while maintaining their health.

“Generationally, older adults and young children are particularly susceptible to colds and flu, making it even more crucial for them to prioritise rest and recovery.

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