Substantial barriers exist that prevent many fathers from playing a full caring role. For a start, men in the UK work the longest hours in Europe, which combined with the gender pay gap, means that for many couples there is little incentive for dad to play a more active domestic role. Men also do not necessarily want to change their habits.
A survey for the Equal Opportunities Commission found that three-quarters of fathers were satisfied with their level of involvement, despite most playing a supporting role to mothers. The way services are delivered, particularly in the childcare sector, reflects a wide gender imbalance: 97.5 per cent of the childcare workforce is female, which can hinder men's full participation.
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