Women will be ‘victims’ of post-virus economy

WOMEN are more likely to lose their jobs than men as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a report.

The study found pre-existing inequalities mean women – particularly those in lower-paid roles – will be harder hit than men.

Analysis by Close the Gap, a Scottish advocacy group for women’s labour market equality, argues occupational segregation – where men and women do different types of jobs and are employed at different levels – is a key factor.

The report says: ‘Occupational segregation ultimately puts women at greater risk of unemployment, enforced reduction of hours and being furloughed.

‘Some of the sectors where women’s roles are concentrated will be less likely to recover after the end of the Covid-19 crisis, including accommodation, food services and retail, as these sectors will be impacted by consumer spending power, tourism and changing consumer preferences.’

The group’s analysis found a gender pay gap in all sectors considered high-exposure roles for the virus in Scotland, ranging from women being paid 4.2 per cent less than men in accommodation and food services to 27.8 per cent less in health and social work.

The researchers said this means the pandemic is ‘very likely to increase the female poverty rate’.

The group has set out a series recommendations.

These include addressing occupational segregation and the ‘undervaluation of women’s work including in adult social care and childcare’ in measures to combat coronavirus disruption to the labour market.

The report states: ‘The lack of consideration afforded to gender in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis resulted in the recession having a disproportionate impact on women’s employment.

‘To prevent similar disproportionate impacts on women, it is vital that the Scottish Government enact a gendered response to the anticipated jobs recession.

‘A return to the status quo after the Covid-19 crisis will merely cement women’s labour market and economic inequality.’

Anna Ritchie Allan, executive director of Close the Gap, said: ‘The existing inequalities women face in the labour market, such as their propensity to be employed in low-paid work in service sectors, means they’ll be hardest hit by the Covid-19 job disruption.

‘Because women do the bulk of childcare, many are also struggling to balance childcare and home learning while being expected to do their job from home. Many women are at breaking point.’