"Should I enquire about the agency's parental leave policy during the interview, or would that be seen negatively? 🤔

This is a common question among candidates, and often, this level of detail isn't readily available as a listed company benefit but is instead buried within the company handbook for new starters. So, a big thank you Campaign UK for their latest agency survey and for publishing the results of what agencies currently offer for their paternity leave. This is the most in-depth piece of research on agency policies we've seen 🙏

Among the surveyed agencies, the top five most progressive parental leave policies include Oliver Agency offering a maximum of 52 weeks of maternity leave at full pay, followed by Goodstuff Communications with 39 weeks at full pay, and the7stars, Bountiful Cow, and Pablo London providing 28 weeks each. (Notice that media agencies seem to be leading the charge here). Some agencies, such as AMV BBDO, and Havas Havas CX helia, provide equal parental leave for both parents, each benefiting from six months of leave. 🏆

Conversely, the worst traits of parental leave policies are marked by limited offerings or no significant enhancements. For instance, some agencies offer only statutory leave or minimal enhancements. One small independent agency offers 13 weeks of fully paid maternity leave but lacks equivalent benefits for paternity leave due to financial constraints.

Additionally, only a handful of agencies, like AMV BBDO, offer meaningful support beyond paid leave, acknowledging the broader needs of parents, such as childcare assistance or counselling, during significant life changes. 💡

Full details of policies from the 40 agencies that responded can be found here.

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