Exploring the roles of fathers from the perspective of informal women workers: a longitudinal mixed methods study from Durban, South Africa

ABSTRACT Informal women workers are vulnerable to poverty and job insecurity, but little is known about how they manage multiple childcare and work responsibilities without maternity protection. We explore perspectives of informal working mothers about the role played by their child’s father. A longitudinal mixed-methods study was conducted among women informal workers. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted at transition points from pregnancy until after women returned to work. Focus group discussions (FGDs) explored the social support systems participants relied on. Twenty-four informal workers were enrolled; 87 IDIs conducted; 14 women participated in three FGDs. Participants had low-paid, insecure informal jobs. Twenty-three participants were in a relationship with the child’s father, and nine were living with him. Fathers played a central role providing emotional, practical and financial support, particularly fathers living in the same household. Most resident fathers took a strong practical role caring for the household and for the baby but traditional practices limited non-resident father’s ability to provide emotional or practical support. Most fathers had low incomes and were unable to provide financial support, so many women returned to work early. Fathers are willing to provide substantial support that is crucial for family well-being, but non-residence is a barrier.