MOTHERHOOD is being penalised in workplaces across Britain with young mums earning 15 per cent less than childless women, figures released today show.

Shocking new data published by the TUC on International Women’s Day revealed how women who have had kids before the age of 33 face poorer treatment at work.

Many told the TUC that they had been forced out of their job or made to go part-time after they took maternity leave.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “This research shows that millions of mothers still suffer the motherhood pay penalty.

“We need to do far more to support all working mums, starting by increasing the number of quality part-time jobs and making childcare much more affordable.

“Women in full-time, well-paid jobs shouldn’t be the only ones able to both become parents and see their careers progress.”

A survey by the Fawcett Society also found that nearly half of those quizzed thought women were less committed to their jobs after having a baby.

When asked whether the same happened to new fathers only 11 per cent of those surveyed agreed.

The feminist group’s chief executive Sam Smethers said the perception “drives inequality and forces women and men into traditional male breadwinner, female carer roles.”

The findings coincided with new figures proving the gender pay gap continues to grow, with the gulf between women and their male colleagues now at an average £300,000 life’s earnings.

Last year alone, British women took home £5,700 less than men — a 24 per cent deficit.

Between 2014 and 2015 women’s annual earnings went up 1.4 per cent, while men’s increased 1.6 per cent.

Recent research by the World Economic Forum also predicted that gender parity in pay would only be reached in 2133, though it could take even longer.