England international Katie Chapman believes the Football Association can improve childcare support for women in football, after her recent call up to the 2015 Women’s World Cup squad.
The 32-year-old saw her central contract cancelled five years ago, when she asked for time off in order to be with her family. However, the Chelsea midfielder has now claimed it was “unreal” to be selected by manager Mark Sampson to travel to Canada next month.
Chapman, who has 85 caps for the national team, is unable to take her three children with her to the tournament, meaning she will be without them from June 6 to July 5. Describing the decision to not see her children for a month as “really tough”, the Chelsea captain added she believed footballers should receive more support than they currently do.
The United States national team contains a number of experienced players, many of whom are mothers and as a result, the national association came to agreements to pay for one nanny to attend each camp – which included their accommodation and travel. However, the England players are yet to receive such benefits.
Speaking about the somewhat controversial topic, Chapman said: “Mark has been more open and relaxed with my family but in terms of childcare there could be more support. It’s not easy with three children.”
Chapman was previously the only mother in the 2003 England squad, and left out the 2010 England squad under the reign of Hope Powell. However, maternity pay has since been incorporated into contracts – which are now worth an improved £20,000 a year.
“It’s getting better as we go along and if I can help that cause in the future for females in the game, I will,” Chapman said.
The Football Association has stated they have maternity policies in place in order to support elite footballers, and they are in the process of reviewing provisions for childcare.
They said: “Our players are supported financially through central contracts and we take a flexible approach to the terms of those contracts, factoring in various considerations including players’ childcare commitments.”
Chapman has not been the only player to comment on the prospect of childcare, with former captain Casey Stoney, who also features in the England party travelling to Canada, speaking out on the subject after becoming a mother to twins back in December.
Prior to her selection, the 32-year-old said: “I’d suffer a lot because I’d miss the little ones like crazy. It would be a tough psychological battle.”
While Stoney’s partner Megan Harris also stated it would be hard in her absence.
England will commence their World Cup campaign in Canada on June 9, facing France in Moncton.
