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Broadcaster and journalist Emma Barnett has said maternity leave doesn't work as a policy for many mothers nationwide.

Speaking after the launch of her new book, 'Maternity Service: A Love Letter to Mothers from the Front Line of Maternity Leave' and the birth of her second child - Emma said the "low uptake" of maternity leave proves the system isn't working.

"I think it's important for policy makers to look at why this policy isn't working."

She pointed to the Scandinavian countries as a good example of where it's done well, before adding "it would be a huge support if we had shared leave as a more normal aspect of having children".

This clip was originally from 5 Live's Naga Munchetty on 19 March 2025.

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