More pandemic recession job losses for women than men

The human capital advisory director at Grant Thornton Channel Islands said the current situation was very different to previous recessions – with the pandemic recession leading to more job losses for women than among men.

‘While the 1970s marked the start of “mancession” periods in industries like construction, the current “shecession” is heavily affecting sectors like hospitality and retail,’ she said.

She also highlighted UK research that a fifth of women work in sectors that had suffered job losses and earnings cuts compared to 13% of men.

Mothers were spending more time than fathers looking after children during lockdown, with nearly half of mothers more likely to have lost or quit their jobs in this time.

Around 16% of mothers were no longer in work as a result of the pandemic compared to 11% of fathers.

The issue of gender equality was also highlighted by the expert.

Whilst Guernsey has made significant progress on gender equality, in keeping with what appears to be a global trend, there are disparities.

Women, particularly those employed on part-time contracts have been disproportionately impacted as jobs are slashed in retail and hospitality.

Local research derived largely from financial service organisations suggested that as many as 44% do not offer diversity or inclusion training. Furthermore, 61% have no equal pay policy in place.

‘Whilst gender diversity appears to be moving in the right direction locally, there is evidently more that can be done to demonstrate good practice.’