The Princess of Wales has been widely commended for demonstrating “real leadership” through her early years initiative, which is now driving significant
The Princess of Wales has been widely commended for demonstrating “real leadership” through her early years initiative, which is now driving significant changes to better support parents and families across the UK.
In March 2023, Princess Kate launched the Business Taskforce for Early Childhood through the Royal Foundation, aiming to encourage businesses to invest in early childhood development. The initiative promotes the idea that supporting the early years can lead to a happier, healthier society and a more productive workforce.
One year after the release of its Case for Change report, the taskforce is already seeing tangible results. Several member businesses have announced impactful new policies and projects. Among the most notable is Deloitte UK’s decision to update its parental leave policy, offering all parents 26 weeks of fully paid leave—a significant move in the corporate world.
The change has been warmly welcomed by advocacy group The Dad Shift, which campaigns for improved paternity leave legislation. Currently, UK fathers are entitled to just two weeks of paid paternity leave.
Co-founder Alex Lloyd-Hunter expressed enthusiasm for the Princess’s behind-the-scenes efforts: “Just last week, we were outside Buckingham Palace hanging baby grows that read ‘Two weeks isn’t enough.’ We’re thrilled to see the Princess of Wales championing better paternity leave.
“It’s encouraging to see progressive employers stepping up, but smaller businesses often can’t afford such policies. Many fathers are left with some of the worst paternity support in Europe—two weeks at less than half the minimum wage, and nothing at all if you’re self-employed.”
He continued by calling for systemic change: “We need urgent government action to raise the statutory minimum so all fathers and non-birthing parents receive fair, properly paid leave—not just those employed by forward-thinking companies. The Princess has shown real leadership—now it’s time for ministers to follow her lead.”
A Broader Impact
Deloitte is one of eight leading UK businesses involved in the Princess’s taskforce, alongside Iceland Foods, NatWest Group, IKEA UK and Ireland, and others. Collectively, these companies are taking action to support families and early years development.
- Deloitte has funded over 1,300 early years teachers to complete leadership qualifications through Teach First.
- IKEA has partnered with local baby banks to distribute essential items to families and introduced a special product line benefiting the Baby Bank Alliance.
- Iceland Foods collaborated with Mumsnet to launch a new toddler meal range, raising funds for Alder Hey Hospital.
- NatWest has expanded its financial support for early years providers and developed tools to help nurseries become more sustainable.
According to the Business Taskforce’s report, investing in early childhood has the potential to deliver at least £45.5 billion in annual value to the UK economy.
Princess Kate’s initiative continues to gain momentum, driving both policy and practical change—reaffirming her commitment to the well-being of children and families and setting a powerful example for leaders in both government and industry.
