Overview

• The ONS estimates an average £1,051 monthly pay drop for mothers five years after a first birth compared with pre-birth earnings.
• Over the five years, losses average £65,618 after the first child, with additional hits of £26,317 after a second and £32,456 after a third.
• The study links a portion of the decline to fewer mothers in employment during the period.
• The steepest fall occurs after the first birth, with sustained reductions recorded for five years after each subsequent child.
• Researchers and campaign groups, including the Work Foundation and Pregnant Then Screwed, are pressing for childcare, parental leave and flexible work reforms, with no new government measures announced in response.