Pandemics, presenteeism and putting yourself forward

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major challenge for gender equality in the workplace across the spectrum, from women being over-represented in the industries worst affected by the crisis to the significant impact of lockdowns on work-life balance.

Indeed, in the past year, one in three women has considered leaving the workforce or downshifting her career—a significant increase from one in four in the first few months of the pandemic, according to McKinsey & Company’s “ Women in the Workplace 2021” report.

Speaking to Intelligent Insurer as part of a panel, Lisa Bartlett, president, UK & Ireland at Crawford & Company, said: “Undoubtedly the pandemic has had a greater impact on the wellbeing of our women. They’ve borne the brunt of balancing home, work and homeschooling. There’s definitely been a significant impact.”