An exploration of fertility and work

Dr Krystal Wilkinson and Dr Clare Mumford, of pro-manchester member Manchester Metropolitan University, are leading a Leverhulme Trust funded research project on the topic of complex fertility journeys and employment. 

Statistics indicate that around 1 in 6 couples in the UK experience infertility, which makes a significant percentage of the working population. Fertility treatment provides hope for some of these couples, as well as a route to parenting for same-sex couples and single women. 

Little is known about how employees navigate fertility journeys and treatment issues (logistical, physical, emotional and financial) alongside their employment commitments.  We have spoken to over 70 men and women about their own experiences of navigating complex fertility journeys alongside their work, and are now turning our attention towards the experiences of line managers. 

If you have experience of supporting an employee undergoing fertility treatment, we would love to speak to you.  Participation in the research would be via one remote interview lasting approximately 30-45 minutes. A full participant information sheet, with more details on the project and participant involvement, will be supplied in advance of the interview. 

If you are interested, please email Krystal at [email protected]

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