International Women's Day

8th March 2009

International Women's Day marks the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. This year, the Government is concerned about the changes that have been taking place in women’s lives, in families, and in the workplace because of the current global economic downturn.

Women are likely to be affected differently to men in a downturn, because of their role in the family and their different work patterns. Women tend to have more caring responsibilities than men for children and older relatives; are more likely to work part time; and head up the vast majority (90 per cent) of lone parent households. They are also particularly vulnerable to discrimination around pregnancy and maternity leave.

We want to ensure we emerge stronger as an economy in the longer term and that means helping women, along with men to use their talents fully in the workplace.

To find out what women really think about the current climate and how it's affecting them, we asked them. The GEO commissioned some research to improve our understanding about what people really think about the current economic climate and how it's affecting them and their families. The research focuses on the concerns and experiences of women, and consists of discussion groups and survey questions which were conducted in Jan-Feb 2009.

To view the key findings from this research, 'The economic downturn – the concerns and experiences of women and families', click below:

The Government wants to hear about what women and families are concerned about during the global economic downturn. Harriet Harman has started a discussion on websites, asking women for their views on how the global downturn has impacted on their family life. Ms Harman also talked with women MEPs in Brussels on 10/11th February 2009 about the impact of the global economic downturn on women and families. The Government is also participating in international forums, such as the upcoming 53rd Session of the ‘Commission on the Status of Women’ to be held in New York in March.

By engaging in a global conversation and setting up roundtable events we can propose solutions, take action, and emerge stronger for the future.

What is the Government doing to support women in the downturn?

It is important that we provide women with support when they need it. So, we have put together the Real Help Now for Women guide, which offers advice and guidance on a range of issues, from managing family finances to finding good-quality childcare, to coping with problems at home. Visit the Real Help Now website to download a copy and for more information.

The Government is:

Providing new training and extra help for women and men who have been out of work for more than six months;
Helping with mortgages and to limit reposessions;
Investing £15million in skills development and support for women;
Increasing child benefit to £20 per week in January instead of April;
Increasing the child element of Child Tax Credit by £75 a year in April 2009;
Providing money and support to help women and men set up their own business;
Funding 35,000 more apprentices;
Working with Citizens Advice Bureau, Working Families and other organisations to identify trends and inform our actions.