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A nationwide study of childless British couples, aged in their 20s and 30s has found as many as 45 percent claim a better work life balance means they will try for a baby EARLIER, with the majority bringing their family plans forward by TWO years, on average.
And according to the study of 2,000, by first direct, more than a fifth (23 percent) of those surveyed say they are now considering starting a family, despite having NO family plans before the pandemic.
The majority of those who are bringing their plans forward, said they were doing so because the last year had made them realise that life is short (26 percent).
Being able to save money while normal life was on hold was another reason cited (25 percent) as was feeling more confident about personal finances (25 percent).
Being able to move from the city and live nearer to good schools (19 percent) was a reason to have a baby, while 19 percent said they would be able to share childcare more equally as they both work flexibly now.
15 percent are hoping to have children sooner as they know future childcare costs will be reduced because of new work patterns.
Chris Pitt, CEO of first direct, said: “With hybrid working expected in the future, it’s only natural it is having a major impact on our life decisions. including having children.
“It is interesting to see is how flexible working has positively impacted some people’s financial wellbeing, which has meant some young people now actually feel they have the option to have children sooner, because they feel more confident with their finances.”
Overall, a staggering 91 percent of young British couples believe hybrid working will change family life forever, in a positive way.
And almost half (45 percent) think it will lead to a better distribution of childcare between mums and dads, with a similar number (44 percent) believing it will mean they will be more involved in their children’s lives – never missing sports day or a school concert again.
Other milestones that under 40s Brits are now working towards earlier than originally planned include buying their first home (27 percent), moving out of the city (23 percent), making a big career change (23 percent) and getting engaged (16 percent).
