20/08/2018 (Agence Europe) – The European Platform for Investing in Children (EPIC) has published its first thematic report on family and child policy in the member states. According to the report, the rate of children at risk of poverty fell slightly between 2011 and 2016, but with strong disparities. The report notes developments in national legislations, with almost all member states having increased maternity leave and allowance levels as well as introducing or reinforcing paternity leave and parental leave. However, the report observes that there is a need for more action to allow parents to better combine professional and private life. Readers may recall that the Council and the EP are preparing for tough negotiations on the directive on the balance between work life and home life (see EUROPE 12060, 12046). The report can be consulted at: https://bit.ly/2Pqmx8i. (PH)