Parenting stories are hugely prominent in the news of late. Whether it’s talk of the approach of Mothering Sunday (14th March), proposed changes in paternal working rights, or recent research into the long-term cost of childcare, the words on everyone’s lips this week are ‘Mum’ and ‘Dad’. Business Link in the East of England’s latest survey celebrates the important role Hertfordshire’s working parents play in the county.

The survey revealed that 96% of Hertfordshire respondents are working parents, with either young children at home or those who have flown the nest, and of these, two thirds said they started their business after having children, with almost half admitting their children were the inspiration behind it. And it’s the Mums who are standing out, with two thirds of respondents combining motherhood and their entrepreneur ambitions.

One parent responder was quick to affirm the freedom that being self-employed grants: “It allows me to have control over my work-life balance. I am a single parent and I no longer feel stressed if the children are off school for any reason like snow or illness. I no longer fret about ensuring I am back on time from lunch. … I am in control.”

The results also highlighted that combining having a family and running a business is realistic, as 60% of respondents with children work full-time. For those looking at the options, over 40% of respondents work from home, whilst the most popular third-party childcare were revealed as asking a family member for help or using a childminder or nanny.

Pat Smith, Chief Executive of Business Link in the East of England, said, “The figures uncovered by our survey certainly make clearer the potential that starting a business and being self-employed can hold for working parents in the region. Whether you are looking at your working arrangements, are interested in starting a business or want to look into rights as a working parent or as an employer, Business Link is on hand to provide the advice and support you need.”

The survey did, however, reveal one area that remains unclear: a tenuous link between employers and familiarity with parental rights. Over 80% of respondents in the region admitted they had never reviewed their maternity/paternity packages. The importance of changing paternity laws (coming into effect for fathers of children born on or after 3rd April 2011) for Herts’ businesses was also highlighted, with more than 70% of businesses surveyed enacting statutory maternity and paternity packages.

Whether you are inspired to discuss the flexible options starting your own business can provide, or want to research the employment laws for parents, your local Business Link is the place to go for free, professional and impartial advice. For information on starting, planning, or growing a business, visit Code example: www.businesslink.gov.uk/east or call 08457 17 16 15.