Today on this freezing cold and somewhat snowy Monday I went along to the ISEL Working Crèche, Launch Event at Blossomfeild Club in Solihull. It’s a new concept for working parents in the Midlands, you book and pay for a work space with a desk, along with an onsite Childcare facility in the form of a crèche opening Mondays and Wednesdays from today.
With the UK reportedly having the most expensive childcare in the world, never more so – have families needed to seek out flexible cost effective childcare solutions. What’s not to love if you work from home or run your own business? Flexible, affordable bookable in advance or adhoc (numbers allowing), with the benefit of keeping on top of your business and work deadlines whilst your children are cared for onsite by childcare professionals.
My own daughter is in Senior school so I no longer have to juggle the pressure of Childcare and in fact when she was small I didn’t return to work myself as Deputy Manager in a day nursery because the financial implications of paying for Childcare would outweigh my salary. I did eventually become a self employed childminder and had the best of both worlds – an income and a stay at home role. But I know only too well the pressure many working parents face when making decisions on work and childcare arrangements.
At the launch event today I met and spoke with women who were attending the event with small children and others with children grown, but nonetheless leading businesses in the local area. Having launched my own business last June I never anticipated just how much I would miss my co-workers and the daily interactions we shared. When you’re having one of those days and your work bestie is there to brain storm and share ideas that turn your frown upside down, not only is it good for your Emotional Wellbeing but it enables you to be more productive in your role. So this morning in the warm and welcoming environment of Rachel’s launch event, there was something special happening, everyone that came through the door was welcomed with tea and cake, we shared stories, experiences and swapped business ideas and talked about just how good it was to talk! It felt wonderful and it encompasses all the things I’m passionate about; quality early childhood, mental health and empowering others. What’s more the possibilities here are endless for parents looking to return to work and seek skills training, mentoring and motivation. Likewise, for business owners seeking to establish their business and work in collaboration with others.
I always talk about the importance of improving outcomes for children but today was also about improving outcomes for parents and families. What is that old saying, happy baby-happy mums…. and dads!