Where does the shoe pinch? Swiss families provide information
A survey of more than 2000 families in Switzerland has revealed: Satisfaction is high - for now. Because the majority fear a bleak future.
The Swiss Family Barometer is new and from now on will take the pulse of families in Switzerland every year. For its premiere, Pro Familia and the pension insurance company Pax surveyed a total of 2084 families in all parts of the country https://www.pax.ch/-/media/pax/download-files/allgemein/pax-schweizer-familienbarometer.pdf?sc_lang=de&hash=A0798CE8B641717AE143FD6CD742D9CA.
The good news: more than three quarters (76 per cent) are satisfied with their current family life. However, over two thirds (68 per cent) expect the general situation to deteriorate over the next three years. Financial topics are the main cause for concern: Health insurance premiums, for example, or housing costs, inflation, but also the school system. Other current social issues such as insecurity as a result of wars, youth violence or immigration are less of a concern.
Source: Familienbarometer
Not enough money in the family coffers
For almost half (41 per cent) of the families surveyed, there is only just enough money to cover the needs of daily life. For six per cent, the income is not enough
Families primarily save money on holidays (40 per cent). But they also cut back on restaurant visits (33 per cent), leisure activities such as the cinema or excursions (27 per cent) and regular hobbies.
Source: Familienbarometer
More than half (54 per cent) say that more financial resources would contribute most to improving family life. In second place, slightly behind at 32 per cent, is more free time with the family. And thirdly: a lower stress level (27 per cent).
Compatibility okay, baby break too short
The survey also asked about the compatibility of work and family life. Sixty-four per cent are "fairly" to "very" satisfied with this. More than half also consider their employer's measures to promote work-life balance to be okay. This could be further improved with more flexibility in organising working hours and more home office and part-time options. However, maternity and paternity leave are too short, according to 66 and 64 per cent respectively.
Cover photo: Shutterstock/David Prado Perucha
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