Case study | People and performance

A tailored parental transition support programme for the Metropolitan Police

Strengthening retention, progression and inclusion of the Met Police’s working parents

Client overview

Business type

Public sector (policing)

Locations

Employees

c. 45,000

Key outcomes

74% of participants were more likely to stay and continue their career
Improved retention at key parental and career transition points
Stronger employer brand as a family friendly and inclusive organisation

The challenge

The Met Police noticed employees that were starting or growing their families would commonly leave the organisation. With NFP’s support, they wanted to design a modern support programme that strengthened retention, inclusion and career continuity of working parents. Operating within a demanding 24/7 frontline environment, the Met needed a parental transition programme that was practical, inclusive and aligned with the realities of operational policing.

Key challenges included:

Designing a truly inclusive programme covering mothers, fathers, adoptive parents, same sex couples and surrogacy
Retaining experienced talent during critical life and career transition points
Enabling flexible working and progression without compromising operational delivery
Equipping line managers with the confidence and tools to support parental transitions effectively

Jo Bristow
People Development Manager

The solution

NFP partnered with the Metropolitan Police to deliver its tailored Parental Returners Programme, known internally as ‘Met Baby’.

Working closely with the Met Police HR team and internal advocate groups, we designed and delivered a comprehensive parental transition programme combining professional and personal development.

NFP delivered:

One‑to‑one transition coaching for parents starting or growing their families
Preparation workshops ahead of parental leave
Returner workshops for employees returning to work
Sessions focused on confidence, communication, identity, resilience, change management and career development
Tailored guidance videos and resources for line managers

The results

For their organisation

Improved retention intent

74% of attendees said they were more likely to stay and continue their career at the Met.

Retention of key talent

Improved retention of skilled and experienced employees.

Progress on inclusion goals

Advanced diversity, inclusion and female progression objectives.

For their people

Confidence in returning and progressing

Increased confidence when returning to work or stepping into new roles.

Practical work–life strategies

Provided tools to better manage work, wellbeing and family life.

Clarity on career direction

Delivered greater clarity around personal identity and career progression.

Met Baby is the single best training and support package I have had in my 17 years in the job. The programme assisted me with managing a promotion with part‑time working and work life balance. I’m delivering on all that is expected of me in my new role.

Met Baby workshop delegate

Explore what parental transition support could deliver

Learn how tailored parental transition programmes can strengthen retention, wellbeing and inclusion across your workforce.

Find out more