Exploring the impact of remote working on parents at the Environment and Resources Authority during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on parents working at the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA). International and local research indicated that working from home during the pandemic reduced commuting stress, enhanced productivity, and facilitated a better work-life balance, particularly improving the mental health of working parents (Eurofound, 2020; Fiorini, 2023; Reynolds, 2021; Tomei, 2021), it also led to increased disruptions, feelings of isolation, and blurred boundaries between work and personal life, which in turn increased stress levels and, in some cases, resulted in burnout. Furthermore, research found that although working parents appreciated the flexibility to manage work and family commitments, at times they felt undervalued and compelled to work even when unwell (Grant Thornton, 2020; ILO, 2020). Given that the majority of ERA employees were in this “rush hour of life” phase, referring to age groups between 30 and 49, this study aimed to analyse and better understand the impact that remote work had on parents throughout the pandemic.