Family-friendly workplaces in Singapore and what to look for

According to the 2018 National Values Assessment, Singaporeans cited work-life balance as one of the top values they prioritise, alongside family, friendship, and health.

In a 2023 survey by human resource consulting firm Randstad, two in five respondents had plans to leave their jobs to improve their work-life balance.

With the rising cost of living, more people, especially homemakers, retirees and caregivers, are finding that it makes sense to go out to work. However, this group of workers require a job with flexibility to manage their caregiving responsibilities or to return to the workforce.

As work-life balance becomes a growing priority for many workers in Singapore, family-friendly workplaces are increasingly in demand.

Whether you're a parent, caring for elderly family members or simply seeking a better balance between your professional and personal life, knowing what to look for in a family-supportive employer can make all the difference.

Here are the key features to keep in mind when choosing an employer:

1. Flexible Work Arrangements

Look for companies that offer remote work options, hybrid set-ups or flexible working hours.

Some employers also provide part-time roles or job-sharing opportunities, which can be invaluable for parents or caregivers managing family commitments.

Good news for those eyeing remote roles. A 2024 survey by global professional services firm EY indicated that 76 per cent of employers have company policies that allow employees to work remotely two to four days a week.

With the introduction of the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement Requests, you can also consider requesting for a flexible work arrangement to meet your needs.

2. Parental Leave Policies

Currently, firms are legally required to offer 16 weeks of maternity leave and four weeks of paternity leave, and six weeks of shared parental leave between the parents (10 weeks from April 2026).

You will be glad to know that some employers have gone beyond the minimum legal requirements.

Progressive organisations offer extended parental leave, shared parental leave options, and support for adoptive parents.

For example, insurer Prudential has been providing 24 weeks of maternity leave since 2017.

Meanwhile, British alcohol beverage firm Diageo offers parental leave of 26 weeks.

These companies reflect a commitment to helping employees balance career and parenthood.

3. Childcare Support

Whether it’s on-site childcare facilities, childcare subsidies or partnerships with nearby centres, childcare support can significantly ease the daily challenges of working parents.

For example, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital has a childcare centre within its premises.

The hospital’s employees are given priority to enrol their children aged two months to six years in the on-site childcare centre at employee rates.

Meanwhile, employees at companies such as DBS Group, GIC Private Limited and SP Group enjoy corporate rates at Kinderland childcare centres.

Knowing that your employer understands and supports your childcare needs is a strong indicator of a family-friendly culture.

4. Family Care Support

Family responsibilities don’t end with children. Many employees also serve as caregivers to elderly parents or other dependants.

While parental or family care leave is not government-mandated, civil servants currently get two days of parent-care leave.

Increasingly, private companies are also offering parent-care leave.

According to the Ministry of Manpower survey in 2020, more than 13 per cent of private companies in Singapore provided paid parent-care leave.

5. Supportive Workplace Culture

It’s not just about policies — it’s also about attitudes. According to a survey by non-profit organisation SG Her Empowerment (SHE), men who have taken flexible work arrangements are more likely than women to feel they have been overlooked for promotions.

Among parents, some 20 per cent of men reported receiving backlash from their supervisor or senior management for taking parent-care leave, compared with about 10 per cent of women.

Therefore, family-friendly workplaces must foster a culture where taking parent-care leave or utilising flexible arrangements is respected, not discouraged.

Managers should lead by example and promote understanding and empathy for such practices across the organisation.

Some companies go the extra mile by offering family health insurance, discounts for family activities or organising family day events. These perks enhance employee morale and foster a stronger bond between staff and the company.

Clear, well-communicated policies and accessible HR support are also crucial. A family-friendly workplace ensures that employees understand their entitlements and feel comfortable raising concerns related to their families.

Returning to work after a long break can be challenging, too. Family-supportive employers offer structured return-to-work programmes, including training, mentorship, and gradual re-entry plans to help employees reintegrate smoothly.

6. Employee Assistance Programmes

Family stress can impact mental well-being.

The Tripartite Advisory on Mental Health and Well-Being at Workplaces recommends that companies provide employees with access to counselling services, such as Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs).

According to the Singapore Counselling Centre, EAPs aim to benefit employees by addressing any personal or work-related issues that may impact their job performance and emotional well-being.

Benefits of EAPs include happier employees, increased employee productivity, efficiency, and morale, decreased absenteeism and sick leave, and greater employee retention.

Companies that provide confidential counselling services, parenting workshops or mental wellness resources demonstrate their care for employees beyond the workplace.

7. Compliance with National Policies

Look out for companies to adhere to Tripartite Standards, especially those related to Work-Life Harmony, Flexible Work Arrangements, and Unpaid Leave for Unexpected Care Needs.

Supporting employees through a conducive environment

Family-friendly workplaces are not just a trend—they’re becoming a norm.

As Singapore continues to champion work-life harmony, look out for companies that play a role in fostering environments where families thrive and employees feel genuinely supported.

Visit NTUC Women & Family to discover other pro-family practices.