Both male and female full-time workers can now support working parents with Union Bank’s extensive maternity leave and on-site childcare facility.
The banking institution’s latest programme, which includes an on-site childcare facility and five months of fully compensated maternity leave (excluding applicable annual leave), is considered a new industry norm. In Nigeria, new mothers are legally entitled to 12 weeks of maternity leave under Section 54 of the Labour Act.
Nonetheless, Union Bank is setting the standard with this innovative all-inclusive bundle, which is far ahead of industry standards. In line with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, this prolonged leave, when combined with the option to take yearly leave, allows new mothers additional time to recuperate and form bonds with their infants. For the first month, returning mothers will also benefit from a one-hour late start, which will facilitate their return to work and guarantee a more seamless work-life balance.
To further assist working parents, Union Bank is also planning to introduce an on-site childcare facility. A pilot programme at the Head Office is scheduled to begin in December 2024. Lactation rooms and family-friendly facilities will be available at the crèche, providing working mothers, in particular, with a convenient childcare option. By allowing women to manage their childcare demands and professional obligations, this programme helps to retain top female talent and promotes an inclusive workplace, all of which contribute to SDG 5: Gender Equality.
Union Bank is supporting economic growth by encouraging gender diversity; studies indicate that attaining gender parity in the workforce might result in a 26% rise in global GDP. Union Bank is making great strides to solidify its standing as a progressive employer in the banking industry with these creative practices.
According to Omayuli Wale-Ajayi, Union Bank’s Chief Talent Officer, he claims: “At Union Bank, we are proud to set a new standard in the banking sector with comprehensive maternity leave for working mothers and crèche facilities for the babies of both male and female full-time employees. We are committed to creating a workplace where women can thrive, and these initiatives are crucial in supporting working mothers as they balance their careers and personal lives. By providing five months of fully paid maternity leave and convenient childcare solutions, we aim to retain and empower top talent, ensuring all employees can contribute to the bank’s success.”
Union Bank is positioned as a pioneer in workplace sustainability and diversity as a result of these proactive practices that improve work-life balance. Union Bank is dedicated to establishing a welcoming, inclusive workplace that supports global sustainability goals by placing a high priority on gender diversity and employee well-being, BrandSpur Nigeria news today reports.
