Childcare Report 2016

Abstract: Children (SWDC) status until a dependent child reaches the age of 11. After a child reaches the age of 11, there is no assurance that a situation whereby both parents are deployed at the same time would be avoided. While it is appreciated that Career Managers would endeavour to accommodate the needs of the family, this appears to be a potential barrier to retention. This is particularly the case for women, who are underrepresented in the Naval Service at all levels, and who, in the current social climate, still experience considerable pressure to prioritise their children’s needs over a career in the Armed Forces. Several respondents from dual serving couples expressed their intention to leave the Naval Service because of: concerns about SWDC status after age 11 (particularly given perceived uncertainty about the future of CEA); dissatisfaction with nine month deployments and the impact on children; and perceived resistance by the Chain of Command in some areas to implement flexible working arrangements. It was felt by some respondents that a change in working culture in some areas still needs to occur, and that there was still an expectation that serving parents would be supported at home by a ‘wife’ who would take care of the childcare.