Self-Employed Mothers in UK Face Maternity Leave Gap

The struggles faced by self-employed mothers in the UK are highlighted in a recent video by Jodie Oates, a work-from-home business owner. Oates, currently pregnant, points out the absence of maternity leave and pay for self-employed individuals. "But women stay for the whole video and interact, so when my baby is born in 3 months I can relax because a work from home business owner who works for herself doesn't get maternity leave or pay," she states in the video. This lack of support disproportionately affects women, forcing many to choose between their careers and childcare. Experts suggest that addressing this issue requires policy changes to provide more inclusive social safety nets for self-employed mothers, ensuring they are not penalized for taking time off to care for their newborns. The government is urged to consider implementing policies that better support self-employed mothers during this crucial period.